China urged the United States to promptly free Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, a statement released by a spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated on Sunday.

The historic legal proceedings against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in New York are rooted in warnings from Hugo Chávez about U.S. drug trafficking accusations potentially aimed at destabilizing his government.

An anonymous Venezuelan official reports at least 40 deaths, both civilian and military, following the U.S. attack. The New York Times documents the death of an elderly woman and the destruction of homes in Catia La Mar. Official accounts from Venezuela and the U.S. regarding casualties are contradictory, with the operation causing significant devastation and trauma for civilians.

Congress members denounce Trump’s military operation in Venezuela as "illegal" for violating the Constitution by failing to obtain legislative authorization. They accuse his secretaries of State and Defense of lying to Congress and warn of a dangerous constitutional and geopolitical crisis. Meanwhile, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated, after a call with Trump, his opposition to "seeking regime change, to violating federal and international law."

The African Union expressed deep concern over recent events in Venezuela, including reports of the kidnapping of President Nicolás Maduro and attacks on state institutions. It reaffirmed respect for sovereignty, called for inclusive political dialogue, and urged action with moderation to preserve regional peace.

The Comptroller detected financial irregularities totaling $15.9 trillion across 73 public entities between 2020 and 2024, with Capredena leading the deficit at $49,408 million. The anomalies, which include unpaid debts and unrecorded payments, highlight substantial risks of poor management, errors, or fraud.

Under Trump's administration, the U.S. has claimed that its military campaign against Venezuela targets drug terrorism and challenges the legitimacy of its government. However, it has become clear that the true objective is to seize its oil and, crucially, strategic minerals such as rare earths. Trump asserts that he will be "very involved" in the oil industry and the "political transition in Venezuela."

In a public statement issued by Alba Movimientos – Chapter Chile, social organizations such as MODATIMA and the Central Autonomous Workers' Union, along with political groups like PSOL Chile, the Popular Party, and the Libertarian Left, are organizing a protest outside the United States Embassy this Saturday, January 3, at 6:00 PM, under the slogan "The attack on Venezuela is an attack against Latin America."

President Lula vigorously condemned the bombings and capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, labeling them an assault on sovereignty and a dangerous precedent. He warned that these actions violate international law and lead to chaos, evoking historical interferences. He called for a strong UN response and offered dialogue and cooperation.

On January 3, 2026, the U.S. attacked Venezuela, capturing President Maduro and his wife. The Bolivarian government remains in control, but the situation is uncertain. An article published in Globetrotter highlights that this incident is part of a protracted war that began in 2001, characterized by economic pressure, sanctions, and attempts at destabilization, warning of severe consequences for the region.