Casualties Hit 80 Following U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela 

The death toll from the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela has risen to 80, according to The New York Times. Reports indicate that the casualties include both civilians and members of Venezuela’s security forces, with numbers expected to increase as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

Early on Saturday, explosions in Caracas, the Venezuelan capital, caused widespread panic across several neighborhoods. Later, U.S. President Donald Trump announced via social media that American forces had successfully captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. He subsequently confirmed the operation in a press briefing, stating that the United States would oversee Venezuela’s administration temporarily until a political transition is implemented.

Trump described the operation as “an incredible thing to see,” noting that no U.S. personnel were harmed and no military equipment was lost during the strike. He emphasized that the transition process must be carefully managed to avoid repeating past issues.

Venezuela’s Defence Minister, however, rejected claims that the U.S. would govern the country, asserting that Venezuela remains fully sovereign despite Maduro’s capture. The White House indicated that the interim leadership under Delcy Rodríguez is expected to cooperate with U.S. directives following the operation.

Trump also warned of potential further military action targeting alleged drug trafficking networks in Venezuela, including possible land strikes. This operation follows months of heightened U.S. military presence and strategic buildup in the region, alongside previous authorization for the CIA to operate within Venezuela to combat narcotics trafficking and illegal migration.

The situation remains fluid, with international observers closely monitoring developments as Venezuela navigates the immediate aftermath of the U.S. intervention.