Venezuela accuses US of violating "Zone of Peace" at CELAC emergency meeting

Venezuela, at an extraordinary session of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), levelled strong accusations against the United States, Foreign Minister Yván Gil Pinto said on social media.

Caracas claimed that Washington violated the so-called “Zone of Peace,” established by regional consensus in 2014, by carrying out strikes on Venezuelan territory on the night of January 3, Caliber.Az reports.

In its statement, Venezuela asserted that the attack targeted civilians. The government also reported the alleged abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, though no further details were provided.

Venezuelan officials emphasised that they view the incident as an act of “imperialist aggression” and warned that such actions pose a threat not only to their country but also to other states in the region. According to them, Venezuela was targeted today, but any other sovereign nation in Latin America could become a victim in the future.

Caracas called on CELAC member states to unanimously condemn the incident and take immediate collective action.

On January 3, 2026, U.S. forces conducted a large-scale military operation involving over 150 aircraft. Strikes targeted military sites (e.g., Fuerte Tiuna base in Caracas, La Carlota airport, Port of La Guaira) to suppress air defences. Elite units (including Delta Force) then raided Maduro's residence, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. They were flown to New York for charges of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking conspiracy.

President Donald Trump announced the success, stating the U.S. would "run" Venezuela temporarily for a "safe transition" and access its oil reserves. Maduro is scheduled for arraignment in Manhattan federal court on January 5, 2026.

By Khagan Isayev