Democratic Rep. Maxine Waters is sharply criticizing President Donald Trump over what the administration says was the capture and transfer of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife to the United States, calling the operation an “abduction” and questioning the motives behind it.
In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Waters asked:
“What the hell is going on?” as she accused the Trump administration of hypocrisy and raised concerns about U.S. intentions in Venezuela.
She contrasted the Maduro operation with Trump’s recent pardon of Juan Orlando Hernández, the former Honduran president convicted on drug trafficking charges, who had been serving a 45-year sentence.
“What is this? Is this about regime change? Is this about oil?” Waters wrote. “Or is this a power play to continue to send a message around the world that Trump is all-powerful and he is headed towards dictatorship in our country?”
Trump Confirms Operation, Signals Temporary U.S. Control
President Trump confirmed on Saturday, January 3, 2026, that U.S. forces carried out a “large-scale strike” in Venezuela that resulted in Maduro and his wife being “captured and flown out of the country.” Speaking at a press conference, Trump said the United States would temporarily “run” Venezuela during a transition period and focus on restoring oil production.
According to U.S. officials cited by CBS News, the operation was conducted by Delta Force, the Army’s elite special operations unit. Maduro and his wife reportedly arrived in New York on Saturday, with Maduro transferred to a federal detention facility later that night.
Drug Charges and Denials
U.S. authorities say Maduro will face federal charges related to drug trafficking and alleged cooperation with criminal groups designated as terrorist organizations.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that a superseding indictment, similar to one first filed against Maduro in 2020, has been prepared.
Maduro has repeatedly denied the accusations in the past, calling them politically motivated. His legal team is expected to challenge U.S. jurisdiction and the circumstances surrounding his capture.
Rising Political and Global Tensions
The operation follows months of U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and other naval assets. The administration has also pointed to a series of deadly strikes on more than 30 boats it claims were involved in drug trafficking.
Waters’ remarks reflect growing concern among Democrats and civil liberties advocates over the legal authority, foreign policy implications, and precedent set by the operation. Critics warn the action could escalate tensions in Latin America and raise serious questions about international law and executive power.
Supporters of the president, however, argue the move represents a decisive blow against international drug networks and a demonstration of American resolve.
The capture of Venezuela’s president is shaping up to be one of the most controversial foreign policy actions of Trump’s presidency, with debates over regime change, oil interests, and the limits of presidential power now front and center.
