08-01-2026

US Action in Venezuela Sparks International Uncertainty

Date: 08-01-2026
Sources: cbsnews.com: 4 | economist.com: 2 | edition.cnn.com: 1
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Source: cbsnews.com

Image content: The image shows a CBS News Poll chart displaying the results of a survey on U.S. military action in Venezuela to remove Maduro from power, with 48% approving and 52% disapproving. The chart is presented by CBS News Poll and YouGov, with a margin of error of +/- 2.4 points, based on data collected from January 5-7, 2026. The results are displayed in purple bars on a white background with a gray curved design. The chart concisely presents the survey's findings on the U.S. military action in Venezuela.

Summary

The US military action in Venezuela, which led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro, has divided Americans and sparked concerns about the implications for global adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba. The Trump administration's goals and plans for Venezuela remain unclear, with some Republicans supporting the action and others expressing concerns about the consequences.

Key Points

  • Americans are divided over the US military action in Venezuela, with opinions tied to perceived US goals
  • The Trump administration's plans for Venezuela remain unclear, sparking uncertainty and concern
  • The action has implications for global adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba

Articles in this Cluster

Actions in Venezuela divide Americans as they look for clarity on Trump admin. goals, CBS News poll finds - CBS News

A CBS News poll found that Americans are divided over the US military action in Venezuela that removed Nicolás Maduro from power. The poll revealed that opinions on the action are closely tied to what people believe the US goals are in Venezuela. Those who think the goals are related to stopping drugs, gangs, and terrorists tend to approve, while those who believe the goals are to access Venezuela's oil or expand US power in the region tend to disapprove. Most Americans say the administration has not clearly explained the US plans for Venezuela, and there is uncertainty about what happens next. Republicans, particularly those who identify as MAGA Republicans, overwhelmingly support the action and believe it will make the US stronger.
Entities: Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela, United States, Trump administration, RepublicansTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

How could Trump's move against Venezuela impact China, Russia, Iran and Cuba? - CBS News

The article discusses the potential impact of President Trump's decision to order U.S. strikes on Venezuela and the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on the country's adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba. The U.S. action has been condemned by these countries, which have maintained close economic and political ties with the Maduro regime. Experts warn that the move could have significant implications for these countries, including China's energy security and Russia's influence in the region. The article also highlights concerns that Trump's action could embolden Chinese President Xi Jinping to launch a unilateral military action against Taiwan.
Entities: Nicolás Maduro, President Trump, China, Russia, IranTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Machado says Venezuela's interim president was "one of the main architects" of Maduro's oppressive regime: "Nobody trusts her" - CBS News

María Corina Machado, the leader of Venezuela's opposition party, has criticized Delcy Rodríguez, the country's interim president, saying she was 'one of the main architects' of Nicolás Maduro's oppressive regime. Machado expressed distrust in Rodríguez, stating that 'nobody trusts her,' which may complicate her new role. Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president after Maduro was captured and taken to the United States. Machado alleged that Rodríguez was involved in torture sites in Venezuela and was a key link in communications with countries like Russia and Iran. Despite the tumultuous circumstances, Machado expressed faith in the Venezuelan people.
Entities: María Corina Machado, Delcy Rodríguez, Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela, United StatesTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

María Corina Machado says Maduro capture will go down in history as the day "justice defeated tyranny" - CBS News

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado praised the capture of Nicolás Maduro, stating it will be remembered as the day 'justice defeated tyranny.' She commended President Trump and the U.S. for their role, saying they have done 'much more than anybody thought was possible.' However, Machado emphasized that there is still work to be done, particularly in releasing an estimated 1,000 political prisoners in Venezuela and stopping repression.
Entities: María Corina Machado, Nicolás Maduro, President Trump, U.S., VenezuelaTone: positiveSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

Donald Trump still has no clear plan for Venezuela

The article discusses the Trump administration's lack of a clear plan for Venezuela after the arrest of Nicolás Maduro by American special forces. Some Republicans are concerned about the potential consequences of US involvement, while others are worried about the president's contempt for democracy. The article highlights the uncertainty and complexity of the situation, with various perspectives on the implications of Maduro's arrest and the US role in Venezuelan politics.
Entities: Donald Trump, Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, Caracas, American special forcesTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

The Venezuelan regime is rapidly consolidating its grip on power

The Venezuelan regime, led by Nicolás Maduro, has rapidly consolidated its grip on power despite a daring US raid that seized Maduro. Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro's vice-president, was sworn in as interim president, backed by powerful ministers Diosdado Cabello and Vladimir Padrino. Rodríguez has extended an invitation to the US government to work together on a co-operation agenda, marking a significant shift in tone. The opposition remains out in the cold, and the US raid has raised concerns about future interventions in the region.
Entities: Nicolás Maduro, Delcy Rodríguez, Diosdado Cabello, Vladimir Padrino, VenezuelaTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

What to know about Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela’s powerful interior minister who may be in jeopardy next | CNNClose icon

The article discusses Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela's powerful Interior Minister, who may be in jeopardy following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces. Cabello is a key figure in the Venezuelan government and has been indicted by the US for drug trafficking. He is considered one of the most powerful officials in Venezuela, commanding the state's internal repression apparatus and militia members loyal to the state. The article explores Cabello's background, his rise to power, and his potential future in the wake of Maduro's capture.
Entities: Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, United States, Pam BondiTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform