Morning Edition
U.S. Captures Venezuelan President Maduro Following Military Strikes
President Trump announced this morning that U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores following a series of airstrikes on Venezuela beginning around 2:00 AM local time. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed both will face charges in the Southern District of New York for narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and weapons possession conspiracy.
Quick Hits
- Migrant boat off the coast of Gambia capsized, ongoing search and rescue . — Dozens are missing after a boat carrying more than 200 migrants capsized off the coast of Gambia, with search and rescue operations ongoing. [Source]
- Powerful earthquake hits Japan — Crews in Japan are searching for survivors after a powerful earthquake, with significant damage and continuing aftershocks reported in affected regions. [Source]
- Demonstrations against Iranian government continue — Iran’s supreme leader has condemned ongoing protests and said that “rioters must be put in their place,” as demonstrations against the government continue in multiple cities.
- Micheál Martin Ireland's prime minister plans trip to China. — Ireland’s prime minister, Micheál Martin, is preparing to visit China in the first trip by an Irish leader in 14 years, signaling a push to deepen economic and diplomatic ties.
- Myanmar's general election going on, — A military‑backed party is leading in early results from Myanmar’s staggered general election, raising fresh concerns over the country’s fragile political opening.
What to Watch Today
What’s Confirmed in Venezuela:
- Multiple explosions reported in Caracas and surrounding states (Miranda, Aragua, La Guaira)
- Trump administration officials confirm the capture operation
- Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez remains in country, issuing defiant statements
- U.S. Embassy in Colombia ordered shelter-in-place for Americans in Venezuela