Miami: US President Donald Trump declared that Washington will oversee Venezuela's government during an interim period following the capture of the country's president, Nicolas Maduro. The announcement was made during a news conference in Florida, where Trump was accompanied by senior officials including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Trump emphasized the US's intent to ensure a safe, proper, and judicious transition for Venezuela, highlighting a commitment to peace, liberty, and justice for its citizens.
According to Anadolu Agency, the capture of Nicolas Maduro occurred after what has been described as a 'large scale' strike by US forces. The intervention has sparked international reactions, with Venezuela's vice president condemning the US's actions as an abduction aimed at regime change to exploit Venezuela's resources. Meanwhile, Russia and China have criticized the US strikes and called for dialogue and adherence to international law. The situation has prompted Venezuela to request an urgent UN Security Council meeting.
In another development, the Yemeni government has announced control over the Hadhramaut desert and valley regions following the withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces. This comes after the STC's retreat from strategic locations, including Al-Ghaydah airport and the presidential palace in Al-Mahra. The Hadhramaut local authority confirmed the completion of operations to secure the area, although the STC has yet to comment.
Meanwhile, North Korea has launched its first ballistic missile of the new year toward the East Sea. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff detected the launch, marking Pyongyang's first such test since November 2025. Details on the missile's specifications, including its type, flight distance, or altitude, have not been disclosed. The launch adds to regional tensions and ongoing security concerns.