US President Donald Trump on Saturday released what he said was the first image of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in US custody, showing him aboard a US warship. The photo, posted on Trump’s Truth Social account, depicts Maduro in a grey sweatshirt and sweatpants, wearing large headphones and holding a water bottle.

According to Trump, Maduro was captured by US forces during a highly coordinated military operation in Caracas. Senior US officials said the nighttime raid involved months of planning and more than 150 aircraft, calling it one of the most complex extraction missions carried out by the United States in the region.

At a press conference, Trump said the US would temporarily “run” Venezuela to ensure a safe transition of power, adding that American oil companies could be allowed to resume operations after years of sanctions. He accused the Maduro government of using oil revenues to fund drug trafficking and other criminal activities.

The operation sparked sharp international reactions, with Venezuela declaring a state of emergency and allies such as Russia and Iran condemning the move. While US-backed opposition figures welcomed the action as a turning point, European leaders voiced concern, warning it could further destabilise the region.