Philenews

What Happens in Venezuela After Maduro's Arrest by the US – The Day After

Published January 3, 2026, 13:12
What Happens in Venezuela After Maduro's Arrest by the US – The Day After

The arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the US, following American operations in Venezuela, marks a significant shift in US relations with Latin America, representing the most direct US intervention in the region since 1989. The US accuses Maduro of drug trafficking and does not recognize him as the legitimate president, considering the 2024 elections invalid. Venezuela, in turn, accuses the US of attempting to seize its oil reserves. Regarding the future, the opposition, led by María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, could take power, however, the situation remains uncertain due to potential resistance from the military and the risk of destabilization.