At a Glance
- President Trump announces capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
- The announcement sparks excitement among Austinites with ties to Venezuela.
- Trump vows U.S. will run Venezuela until a proper transition of power.
This Saturday, tensions between the United States and Venezuela reached a critical point as President Donald Trump declared that Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro had been captured during a press conference in Austin.
The Press Conference
President Donald Trump described the situation as “an assault like people have not seen since World War II,” and announced Maduro’s capture.
President Donald Trump stated:
> “It was an assault like people have not seen since World War II.”
He added that the United States would “run the country” until a proper transition of power could be arranged.
Reactions from Austinites
Aldias Vichiotta, a resident with strong ties to Venezuela, said he was very excited.
Aldias Vichiotta said:
> “Very excited.”
Alexander, another Austin resident, echoed the sentiment, noting his country’s long hardship.
Alexander said:
> “I am very excited today because my country is living hard for a long time.”
Carlos Contreras, who works at a local Venezuelan restaurant, described the news as surreal and shared how his family celebrated.
Carlos Contreras said:
> “It is a surreal feeling.”
He also mentioned receiving calls from family in the middle of the night.
Carlos Contreras added:
> “I had a lot of family members call me in the middle of the night.”
- Aldias Vichiotta: “Very excited.”
- Alexander: “I am very excited today because my country is living hard for a long time.”
- Carlos Contreras: “It is a surreal feeling.”
Next Steps

Trump’s statement indicates the U.S. will govern Venezuela temporarily.
The transition timeline remains unspecified, but the announcement marks a significant shift in U.S.-Venezuela relations.
Key Takeaways
- Maduro’s capture announced by President Trump.
- Austinites with Venezuelan ties react with relief and excitement.
- U.S. will run Venezuela until a transition of power is arranged.

