The U.S. conducted a targeted military operation in Venezuela on January 3, 2026, launching strikes and a special forces raid that captured President Nicolás Maduro without deploying ground troops, as affirmed by the Defense Department. This intervention, framed as addressing narco-trafficking and authoritarian rule, prompted international debate over its legality under the War Powers Resolution but avoided full-scale invasion or occupation. In recent weeks, relations have normalized with diplomatic ties restored in March, sanctions lifted on acting President Delcy Rodríguez in early April, and eased restrictions on state-run banks by April 15 amid economic stabilization efforts. No escalatory signals or scheduled military actions appear on the horizon, emphasizing diplomacy over further intervention.