Watching BBC News at the moment and they are saying there are reports of explosions in Caracas, Venezuela.

No word of what it could be.

Praying everyone in that part of the world is safe.

Video of some of the incident below:

https://youtu.be/kSS4-wKDff0

Probably the work of a certain rapist.

https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

https://edition.cnn.com/2026/01/03/americas/venezuela-explosions-intl-hnk


Caracas
—
A CNN team witnessed several explosions early Saturday in Caracas, and reported that some areas of the city were without electricity.

The first blast was recorded at approximately 1.50am local time (0.50aET).

“One was so strong, my window was shaking after it,” CNNE correspondent Osmary Hernandez said.

Several areas of the city were without power and CNN journalists in the Venezuelan capital could hear sound of aircraft after the explosions.

The cause of the explosions was unclear.

One video obtained and verified by CNN showed two plumes of smoke rising into the night sky amid city lights. An orange glow can be seen at the base of one of the plumes. Then a flash in another location is briefly seen, followed by a dull booming sound.

Venezuelan news outlets Efecto Cocuyo and Tal Cual Digital reported explosions were also heard in La Guaira state north of Caracas and on the country’s coast, and at Higuerote a city on the coast in Miranda state.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned that the US is preparing to take new action against alleged drug trafficking networks in Venezuela and that strikes on land will start “soon.”

In October, Trump said that he authorized the CIA to operate inside Venezuela to clamp down on illegal flows of migrants and drugs from the South American nation.

CNN has reached out to the White House, the State Department and the Pentagon for comment.

Bobby. wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 5:18pm:

The cause of the explosions was unclear.

Pretty clear it's the work of a certain rapist.

https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

It could be gas explosions, who knows.

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 5:21pm:

Bobby. wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 5:18pm: The cause of the explosions was unclear. Pretty clear it's the work of a certain rapist.

Nahhh - could be ISIS?    :-/

MattE wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 5:24pm:

It could be gas explosions, who knows.

My money's on a rapist.

https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

Bobby. wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 5:24pm:

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 5:21pm: Bobby. wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 5:18pm: The cause of the explosions was unclear. Pretty clear it's the work of a certain rapist. Nahhh - could be ISIS?    :-/

In planes?

"At least seven explosions, low-flying aircraft, and one column of smoke have been seen in Venezuela's capital, Caracas, according to eye-witness reports."

Venezuelans are angry with their Govt, like the Iranians are.
They're upset because the money 💰🤑 isn't coming in from their drug exports poisoning Americans.

Jasin wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 5:50pm:

Venezuelans are angry with their Govt, like the Iranians are. They're upset because the money 💰🤑 isn't coming in from their drug exports poisoning Americans.

They have more oil than any other country in the world -
everyone should be a millionaire but
all the money was stolen by the crooks running their country.   ::)

Most people are dirt poor.

Venezuelans are angry with their Govt, like the Iranians are.
They're upset because the money 💰🤑 isn't coming in from their drug exports poisoning Americans.

Must be frustrating having stockpiles of deadly drugs not being sold.
Let alone black market oil.
Such a turd nation and culture of people.

Jasin wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 5:52pm:

Venezuelans are angry with their Govt, like the Iranians are. They're upset because the money 💰🤑 isn't coming in from their drug exports poisoning Americans. Must be frustrating having stockpiles of deadly drugs not being sold. Let alone black market oil. Such a turd nation and culture of people.

Same as Russia and Iran - the crooks stole all their wealth.

In some ways Australia is the same -
we have had our natural resources stolen by multi-national companies.

Told you it was the rapist.

Trump ordered strikes on Venezuelan military sites - CBS

Breaking

President Trump (rapist and convicted felon) ordered strikes on sites inside Venezuela, including military facilities, US officials tell the BBC's US partner CBS News.

https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

Bobby: your "President of peace" has started yet another war.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jrtfutQOBA

Yes. But unlike your PAEDOPHILE Biden.
Trump's War & Peace policies actually work and succeed.

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:17pm:

Bobby: your "President of peace" has started yet another war. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jrtfutQOBA

Comments:

Congress has not approved this.  Arrest trump and IMPEACH.

Hegseth Secretary of the Dept of War Crimes should be arrested and impeached

so much for those military members refusing illegal orders !!

Your peace-loving president commits more war crimes

WTF 🤬🤬🤬🤬.  ARREST THE PRESIDENT NOW!!!!

As a U.S. Veteran. This disgust me in every way. Every military member that follows these illegal/unlawful/ immoral orders must & will pay the maximum penalty.

Congress must impeach and remove trump immediately.

Donald Trump did this? The President of Peace? May he rot in hell for this criminal act.

My heart goes out to the people of Venezuela. Imagine going to bed to the USA illegally bombing your country. This will not end well for us.

Trump and his goons should be in jail they have no authority to be doing this without congressional approval Impeach his whole cabinet and throw them in jail

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:17pm:

Bobby: your "President of peace" has started yet another war. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jrtfutQOBA

Wow - what will our leader of the free world say?

Bobby. wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:30pm:

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:17pm: Bobby: your "President of peace" has started yet another war. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jrtfutQOBA Wow - what will our leader of the free world say?

Something along the lines of "The United States is at war, therefore, all elections are hereby postponed until further notice".

You know - exactly like he said he was going to do.

'The War Powers Resolution (1973)
Passed after the Vietnam War to reassert congressional authority and prevent prolonged engagements without approval.
Requires the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying troops and limits deployments to 60-90 days without a congressional vote.'
He's got 89 days.

Congratulations to the United States military 😊

chimera wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:44pm:

'The War Powers Resolution (1973) Passed after the Vietnam War to reassert congressional authority and prevent prolonged engagements without approval. Requires the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying troops and limits deployments to 60-90 days without a congressional vote.' He's got 89 days.

1 day was all he took to sort Iran out. Its more like Venezuela has 89 days to survive.

Seems like Venezuela has a piss poor military if helicopters can attack them.  WTF?

Helicopters are sitting ducks even for rifles.

MattE wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:46pm:

Congratulations to the United States military 😊

For carrying out an illegal attack?

Leroy wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:48pm:

1 day was all he took to sort Iran out.

https://iranstonecontact.com/c/isco
Trump  supplied gravel and rocks to the distributor, nothing else changed. Netanyahu and Putin are his friends.

chimera wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:57pm:

Leroy wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:48pm: 1 day was all he took to sort Iran out. https://iranstonecontact.com/c/isco Trump  supplied gravel and rocks to the distributor, nothing else changed. Netanyahu and Putin are his friends.

So what is just you and greg who are his enemies?.

Leroy wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:58pm:

So what is just you and greg who are his enemies?.

:o
:o :o

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:53pm:

MattE wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:46pm: Congratulations to the United States military 😊 For carrying out an illegal attack?

Who says it is illegal?

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 6:53pm:

MattE wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:46pm: Congratulations to the United States military 😊 For carrying out an illegal attack?

Illegal by whom?
Your corrupt Leftism and Democraps whose politics adheres to the archaic dead end of Rome & Athens which can't accept the needs of the modern world?
The incompetent Joe Biden-like United Nations?

I think you should go f#ck yourself you criminal.

MattE wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 7:18pm:

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:53pm: MattE wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:46pm: Congratulations to the United States military 😊 For carrying out an illegal attack? Who says it is illegal?

US and international law.

Your rapist friend is a war criminal.

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 7:25pm:

MattE wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 7:18pm: greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:53pm: MattE wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 6:46pm: Congratulations to the United States military 😊 For carrying out an illegal attack? Who says it is illegal? US and international law. Your rapist friend is a war criminal.

Go on greg make a citizens arrest, maybe you could ask to see the manager.

BREAKING NEWS:

President Nicolás Maduro has been CAPTURED and is now in the custody of the United States.

https://i.postimg.cc/fTJz7bdk/Screenshot-20260103-202428.jpg

MattE wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 7:27pm:

BREAKING NEWS: President Nicolás Maduro has been CAPTURED and is now in the custody of the United States.

Rapist, war criminal, and now a kidnapper.

https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

MattE wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 7:27pm:

BREAKING NEWS: President Nicolás Maduro has been CAPTURED and is now in the custody of the United States.

THE WORLD REJOICES!!!

TRUMP IS GREAT YET AGAIN.😆

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 7:29pm:

MattE wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 7:27pm: BREAKING NEWS: President Nicolás Maduro has been CAPTURED and is now in the custody of the United States. Rapist, war criminal, and now a kidnapper. https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

Says the Democrat Drug and People Smuggling Cartel salesman.

WOW


https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/venezuela-explosions-caracas-intl-hnk-01-03-26

President Donald Trump announced early Saturday morning that the US carried out a “large scale strike against Venezuela” and that President Nicolas Maduro and his wife have been captured and removed from the country.

“The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and
flown out of the Country,” he wrote on Truth Social.

“This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a News Conference today at 11 A.M., at Mar-a-Lago,” he added.



https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c5yqygxe41pt

Trump says US has 'captured' Venezuelan President Maduro amid large scale strikes

published at 20:27


Breaking

President Donald Trump says the US has carried out a "large scale strike against Venezuela" and "captured its leader, President Nicolas Maduro" and his wife.

Here's the statement from Truth Social in full:

"The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country.

"This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a News Conference today at 11 A.M., at Mar-a-Lago. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP."

Trump don't need Korean, Vietnam or Afghanistan costly wars.
He's efficient and precise.

American Military recruitment numbers have skyrocketed!
American men and women are joining up for Trump and America isn't even at War yet.

greg supports Maduro, so thats one person, I bet Armchair and sadroo support him also.

Will Trump come for Anus Albo?
We can only hope so.

Bobby. wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 7:54pm:

"This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement".

So it's 'Gulf of America'. Venezuela is now a US colony.

https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/loud-noises-heard-venezuela-capital-southern-area-without-electricity-2026-01-03/


WASHINGTON, Jan 3 (Reuters) -

The U.S. struck Venezuela overnight and captured its long-serving President Nicolas Maduro, President Donald Trump said early on Saturday after months of pressuring him over accusations of drug-running and illegitimacy in power.
Washington has not made such a direct intervention in Latin America since the invasion of Panama in 1989 to depose military leader Manuel Noriega, over similar allegations.


The Reuters Tariff Watch newsletter is your daily guide to the latest global trade and tariff news. Sign up here.
"The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the country," Trump said in a Truth Social post.


The U.S. had accused Maduro of running a "narco-state" and rigging last year's election, which the opposition said it won overwhelmingly. The Venezuelan leader, who succeeded Hugo Chavez to take power in 2013, has said Washington wants to take control of Venezuela's oil reserves, the largest in the world.

This is madness.

How does a US president get away with summarily executing people on the high seas, committing 2 acts of piracy on Venezuelan ships and now kidnapping the Venezuelan president and his wife?

This is ridiculous. How can he remain in office?  :o

Maybe he will kidnap AnAl for us, if we ask nicely.

https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/venezuela-explosions-caracas-intl-hnk-01-03-26?t=1767436389968

1 min ago

Rubio says Maduro arrested to stand trial in US, according to US senator

From CNN's Simone Pathe

The US arrested Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to stand trial in the US, according to a Republican senator who says he spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

“He informed me that Nicolás Maduro has been arrested by U.S. personnel to stand trial on criminal charges in the United States, and that the kinetic action we saw tonight was deployed to protect and defend those executing the arrest warrant,” Utah Sen. Mike Lee posted on X early Saturday.

“This action likely falls within the president’s inherent authority under Article II of the Constitution to protect U.S. personnel from an actual or imminent attack,” Lee added.

Earlier Saturday morning, Lee had raised concerns about the strike, writing on X: “I look forward to learning what, if anything, might constitutionally justify this action in the absence of a declaration of war or authorization for the use of military force.”

Captain Nemo wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 8:32pm:

This is madness. How does a US president get away with summarily executing people on the high seas, committing 2 acts of piracy on Venezuelan ships and now kidnapping the Venezuelan president and his wife? This is ridiculous. How can he remain in office?  :o

Ring them up and ask for the manager.

Captain Nemo wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 8:32pm:

This is madness. How does a US president get away with summarily executing people on the high seas, committing 2 acts of piracy on Venezuelan ships and now kidnapping the Venezuelan president and his wife? This is ridiculous. How can he remain in office?  :o

Nobody has the balls to stop him.

Everything he's doing is illegal, yet nobody has the guts to come out and do something about it.

Americans were warned this was going to happen - they have nobody to blame but themselves.

He said he would be a dictator, the American people voted him in, and now he's coming good with his promise.

And the really bad thing is, it's gonna get a whole lot worse - his murdering spree has only just begun.

We can only hope that nature takes its course sooner rather than later, and that he dies from a massive heart attack in the not too distant future.

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 8:41pm:

Captain Nemo wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 8:32pm: This is madness. How does a US president get away with summarily executing people on the high seas, committing 2 acts of piracy on Venezuelan ships and now kidnapping the Venezuelan president and his wife? This is ridiculous. How can he remain in office?  :o Nobody has the balls to stop him. Everything he's doing is illegal, yet nobody has the guts to come out and do something about it. Americans were warned this was going to happen - they have nobody to blame but themselves. He said he would be a dictator, the American people voted him in, and now he's coming good with his promise. And the really bad thing is, it's gonna get a whole lot worse - his murdering spree has only just begun. We can only hope that nature takes its course sooner rather than later, and that he dies from a massive heart attack in the not too distant future.

Maduro is a gangster drug dealer -

responsible for the deaths of 100s of 1000s of Americans.

Trump is gunna put him on trial and hang em,  and hang em high.

Bobby. wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 8:51pm:

greggerypeccary wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 8:41pm: Captain Nemo wrote on Jan 3rd, 2026 at 8:32pm: This is madness. How does a US president get away with summarily executing people on the high seas, committing 2 acts of piracy on Venezuelan ships and now kidnapping the Venezuelan president and his wife? This is ridiculous. How can he remain in office?  :o Nobody has the balls to stop him. Everything he's doing is illegal, yet nobody has the guts to come out and do something about it. Americans were warned this was going to happen - they have nobody to blame but themselves. He said he would be a dictator, the American people voted him in, and now he's coming good with his promise. And the really bad thing is, it's gonna get a whole lot worse - his murdering spree has only just begun. We can only hope that nature takes its course sooner rather than later, and that he dies from a massive heart attack in the not too distant future. Maduro is a gangster drug dealer -

In that case, Trump will pardon him.

https://m3.gab.com/media_attachments/f6/f6/ad/f6f6ad29940097b3b69150fa1c168eec.png

https://lavocedinewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/trump.jpg

He was an unrecognised president and the leader of a narco terrorist group.

The Drug Enforcement Agency conducted a raid and have arrested him.

BREAKING NEWS:

Nicolas Maduro and his wife have been indicted in New York.

STATEMENT FROM UNITED STATES ATTORNEY GENERAL PAM BONDI:

Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York.  Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States.  They will soon face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts. On behalf of the entire U.S. DOJ, I would like to thank President Trump for having the courage to demand accountability on behalf of the American People, and a huge thank you to our brave military who conducted the incredible and highly successful mission to capture these two alleged international narco traffickers.

Venezuelans in Chile are out celebrating and thanking Donald Trump for this action.

:)

---

https://i.ibb.co/m5wbzzkv/Screenshot-20260104-010629.png

Imagine being peacefully asleep and woken by such a raid?

https://i.ibb.co/R4v8XFKT/20260104-013502.jpg

Trump has just said on air the US is going to be running Venezuela moving forward.

That is very strange -
neither the Maduro Govt. nor the Venezuelan army has surrendered so
what happens now?

Bobby. wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 4:43am:

Trump has just said on air the US is going to be running Venezuela moving forward. That is very strange - neither the Maduro Govt. nor the Venezuelan army has surrendered so what happens now?

It sounds like George Bush declaring
"Mission accomplished" in 2003 – LOL.

U.S. troops fought in Iraq for eight more years, before eventually withdrawing in 2011
and then they fought ISIS for years afterwards.
It's still ongoing to this day.

MattE wrote on Jan 3^rd, 2026 at 10:28pm:

the leader of a narco terrorist group. .

So US citizens buy drugs and are terrorised by it? They pay without a Tariff which terrorises Trump?  The drugs explode in subways?  The exploding boats are terrorising?

To pull this off there must have been massive internal cooperation with USA.
Can't wait to see the reaction of every day Venezuelans who will be rejoicing vs lefties who will be having full blown TDS.

Gordon wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 8:59am:

To pull this off there must have been massive internal cooperation with USA. Can't wait to see the reaction of every day Venezuelans who will be rejoicing vs lefties who will be having full blown TDS.

https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExbGhoN2N1OTZyODIwbjNpanhpN2RucXZ6NTQ2aG9xMnN3bzBraG04biZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/WrIiyrvaFSeyVlxwtx/giphy.gif

Gordon wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 8:59am:

vs lefties who will be having full blown TDS.

The commie Germans and Poms are revolting.
'The European Union urged the adherence to international law after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro early Saturday.'

The Venezuelan people seem pretty happy with this, it's only the hopeless TDS snowflakes that would rather see a criminal drug lord running a country than seeing its people freed.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15431105/happy-Venezuelans-world-celebrate-capture.html

Same in Ukraine where President Putin has liberated the populace, oppressed by drugs, democracy and gays.

War on Democracy by Australia's John Pilgar. A documentary.

Shows the true corruption of pre-Trump American Politics and Media.

...of how the CIA implanted DICTATORSHIPS in South American countries to keep them weak under the National Security excuse. From Venezuela to Pinochet in Chile. All funded and supported by America under the table while the Media put on a show of condemning them over the table.

Sometimes the people rose up against their Dictators, even though American Media corrupted footage of showing them to be Terrorists, etc.

Venezuelans once rose up against one such Dictator for America. The soldiers, unable to shoot 400,000 people. Turned on their President and he fled by chopper to America.

This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently.
He don't like CIA dictators.

chimera wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 10:10am:

Same in Ukraine where President Putin has liberated the populace, oppressed by drugs, democracy and gays.

Your desperation is glowing, you compare Ukraine to Venezuela as the crux of your argument. Trump has checkmated you.

Jasin wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 10:34am:

This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. .

Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”.
He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”.

This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him.

Leroy wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 10:50am:

Trump has checkmated you.

Too easy.
And now Putin moves his bishops and knights, takes Trump for  a ride and is king.

chimera wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:01am:

Leroy wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:50am: Trump has checkmated you. Too easy. And now Putin moves his bishops and knights, takes Trump for  a ride and is king.

It doesn't change anything when it comes to Vladimir Putin.

Vladimir Putin is someone who has authorised the use of chemical weapons to kill political opponents inside other nations. How is that respecting sovereignty?

chimera wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:01am:

Leroy wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:50am: Trump has checkmated you. Too easy. And now Putin moves his bishops and knights, takes Trump for  a ride and is king.

It was too easy for Trump.

I note you have fallen back to plan A, Putin,Russian collusion, and we all know whats next "Epstein files".

MattE wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:28am:

How is that respecting sovereignty?

Putin respects the glory of Russian Ukraine and East Germany. He doesn't do South America but is working on faster nukes so maybe one day.

chimera wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 10:58am:

Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”. This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him.

Trump is genius.
He's seen what a great job Britain has done with Australia
...despite the Left trying to sabotage us here.

Leroy wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:32am:

chimera wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:01am: Leroy wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:50am: Trump has checkmated you. Too easy. And now Putin moves his bishops and knights, takes Trump for  a ride and is king. It was too easy for Trump. I note you have fallen back to plan A, Putin,Russian collusion, and we all know whats next "Epstein files".

;D

Leroy wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:32am:

we all know whats next "Epstein files".

Epstein ruled the Virgin Islands in collusion with Trump with 10% to Putin, less Tariffs and no Russian oil-tankers unless there's Ukraine rare earths in partnership, reduced VAT at 12%.

chimera wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 10:58am:

Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”.

Worthy words from Trump, but will he achieve it?

In the US, polls show many people who elected Trump in 2024 won't do so in the midterms, because the cost-of-living remains a burden for many, despite Trump's promises. 


Quote:

This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him.

(pass....)

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:51am:

chimera wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:58am: Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”. Worthy words from Trump, but will he achieve it? In the US, polls show many people who elected Trump in 2024 won't do so in the midterms, because the cost-of-living remains a burden for many, despite Trump's promises.  Quote: This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him. (pass....)

So Trump is more concerned about doing the right thing instead of mid term voting, so undemocratic of him.

I was going to suggest you ring the manager but with so many lefties ringing the manager at the moment you would be on hold for a while.

Traditionally. Every President in sitting, has never done well in the Mid-Terms.
Take Ronny Reagan and his Star Wars agenda to turn all the satellites 🛰️ 📡 into a giant metal ring from a Kessler effect.
Um, well - I suppose that's an obvious reason.  :-/
Most Presidents bounce back from it... except Joe Biden.
First President to be SACKED by his own Party 😆😆

Jasin wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:01pm:

Traditionally. Every President in sitting, has never done well in the Mid-Terms. Take Ronny Reagan and his Star Wars agenda to turn all the satellites 🛰️ 📡 into a giant metal ring from a Kessler effect. Um, well - I suppose that's an obvious reason.  :-/ Most Presidents bounce back from it... except Joe Biden. First President to be SACKED by his own Party 😆😆

At the very least the first president to sign his resignation with autopen. ;D ;D

Leroy wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 11:57am:

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:51am: chimera wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:58am: Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”. Worthy words from Trump, but will he achieve it? In the US, polls show many people who elected Trump in 2024 won't do so in the midterms, because the cost-of-living remains a burden for many, despite Trump's promises.  Quote: This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him. (pass....) So Trump is more concerned about doing the right thing instead of mid term voting, so undemocratic of him.

"Doing the right thing" includes reducing cost of living pressures in the US, which he has failed to do (according to polls).  I won't hold my breath expecting a positive outcome for low income groups in Venezuela.


Quote:

I was going to suggest you ring the manager but with so many lefties ringing the manager at the moment you would be on hold for a while.

Triumphant Mamdani and Sanders have the platforms to address the manager - he would be wise to listen.

https://i.ibb.co/gNbsFpX/Screenshot-20260104-125928.png

Nicolas Maduro and his wife will be held at the Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn (NYC). They will be held separately in the male and female wings, respectively.

The MDC is said to be like a dungeon. It is secure, but in disrepair with rat infestation and heating and cooling not up to standard. NYC is bitterly cold at this time of the year and both of them will not be used to such cold conditions.

In less than 24 hours, they have gone from living the lap of luxury to isolation with nothing more than a steel bed, thin mattress and steel toilet.

Leroy wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:04pm:

Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 12:01pm: Traditionally. Every President in sitting, has never done well in the Mid-Terms. Take Ronny Reagan and his Star Wars agenda to turn all the satellites 🛰️ 📡 into a giant metal ring from a Kessler effect. Um, well - I suppose that's an obvious reason.  :-/ Most Presidents bounce back from it... except Joe Biden. First President to be SACKED by his own Party 😆😆 At the very least the first president to sign his resignation with autopen. ;D ;D

;D
Yes!

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:06pm:

Leroy wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:57am: thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:51am: chimera wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:58am: Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”. Worthy words from Trump, but will he achieve it? In the US, polls show many people who elected Trump in 2024 won't do so in the midterms, because the cost-of-living remains a burden for many, despite Trump's promises.  Quote: This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him. (pass....) So Trump is more concerned about doing the right thing instead of mid term voting, so undemocratic of him. "Doing the right thing" includes reducing cost of living pressures in the US, which he has failed to do (according to polls).  I won't hold my breath expecting a positive outcome for low income groups in Venezuela. [quote]I was going to suggest you ring the manager but with so many lefties ringing the manager at the moment you would be on hold for a while.

Triumphant Mamdani and Sanders have the platforms to address the manager - he would be wise to listen.


[/quote]

770,000 Venezuelians will be able to return to Venezuela saving America billions and billions of dollars, freeing up accommodation, welfare, strain on health care and pressure on schools.  You are happy the people of Venezuela have gained this opportunity to rebuild their country or do you prefer them to live under Maduro?.

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:06pm:

Leroy wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:57am: thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:51am: chimera wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:58am: Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”. Worthy words from Trump, but will he achieve it? In the US, polls show many people who elected Trump in 2024 won't do so in the midterms, because the cost-of-living remains a burden for many, despite Trump's promises.  Quote: This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him. (pass....) So Trump is more concerned about doing the right thing instead of mid term voting, so undemocratic of him. "Doing the right thing" includes reducing cost of living pressures in the US, which he has failed to do (according to polls).  I won't hold my breath expecting a positive outcome for low income groups in Venezuela. [quote]I was going to suggest you ring the manager but with so many lefties ringing the manager at the moment you would be on hold for a while.

Triumphant Mamdani and Sanders have the platforms to address the manager - he would be wise to listen.


[/quote]
Biden Demo-rats put pressure on the American people with the cost of living by allowing millions of illegal Plebs, people smugglers, drug cartels and criminals in like an extra 50 people into an elevator. No wonder the Demo-rats crashed.

MattE wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:09pm:

https://i.ibb.co/gNbsFpX/Screenshot-20260104-125928.png Nicolas Maduro and his wife will be held at the Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn (NYC). They will be held separately in the male and female wings, respectively. The MDC is said to be like a dungeon. It is secure, but in disrepair with rat infestation and heating and cooling not up to standard. NYC is bitterly cold at this time of the year and both of them will not be used to such cold conditions. In less than 24 hours, they have gone from living the lap of luxury to isolation with nothing more than a steel bed, thin mattress and steel toilet.

Would not be surprised they are somewhere else, democrats have already passed on the blueprints for this building to the drug cartels.

So this state of Venezuela won't have elected reps in the imperial Congress? Taxation without representation? Then the US name-plates will need replacing with 'Emperor Donald John'.

Venezuelans need to make their country Great Again.

chimera wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:16pm:

So this state of Venezuela won't have elected reps in the imperial Congress? Taxation without representation? Then the US name-plates will need replacing with 'Emperor Donald John'.

That sort of stuff gets covered when you go to high school, at the moment you need to learn to color within the lines.

So nowadays, Americans find Venezuela in the atlas as part of southern California. (Gaza is west New York).

What happens now?

I doubt the Govt. in Venezuela wants to fight back but
the drug dealers in the jungle might put up a fight.
They stand to lose $billions from the drug trade now.
Does that mean a jungle war like Vietnam?

Best so far...

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS5U8jGs5/

No, General Trump will lead the D-Day Landings like before when he liberated Israel.

Gordon wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:53pm:

Best so far... https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS5U8jGs5/

Very funny.  LOL

The ‘Putinization’ of US foreign policy has arrived in Venezuela
Julian Borger
Senior international correspondent


Trump is no longer bending the rules – he is demolishing them, with consequences far beyond Caracas

Hardly anyone expected 2026 to be a year of peace, and it was barely two days old when the worst fears were confirmed.

The overnight strikes on Venezuela, the abduction of its leader, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, and Donald Trump’s declaration that the US would “run” the country and sell its oil, have driven another truck through international law and global norms. But that is not even the most concerning thing about it.

Donald Trump has been driving convoys of bulldozers through that increasingly fragile edifice since taking office nearly a year ago, and now it is mostly wreckage. The events overnight were preceded by airstrikes on small boats in the seas off Central America and the killing of their crews based on unproven allegations of drug trafficking, and the armed seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers on the high seas. It is not yet known how many people were killed in the capture of Maduro in the early hours of Saturday.

In terms of global stability, the worst thing about the Maduro rendition is that it worked.

Trump’s belief in his own global omnipotence, and his desire to grab the territory and natural resources of other countries has been held in check until now by his fear of entanglement in foreign wars. He claimed (falsely) to have ended eight wars, and his greatest ambition in 2025 seemed to be winning the Nobel peace prize. Less than a month ago he was brandishing a hastily confected substitute, the Fifa peace prize. That act of self-abasement by world football’s governing body looks even more absurd now than it did when Trump grabbed the gold medal and put it around his own neck.

Trump’s apprehension over foreign wars seems to be waning. He was clearly thrilled by the drama of the Maduro operation, and the efficiency of the American soldiers who carried it out, declaring on Saturday he was “not afraid” of deploying ground forces in Venezuela to pursue his interests. For an ageing president, growing more petulant, irascible and incoherent with every day in office – facing diminishing popularity and desperate to distract attention from the Epstein child-trafficking scandal – a tightening embrace of military power is an ominous development.

On Saturday morning, Trump seemed giddy with military success. “A lot of good planning and a lot of great, great troops and great people,” Trump told the New York Times. “It was a brilliant operation, actually.”

The attack on Venezuela suggests the allure of foreign lands, oil and minerals is now glimmering brighter than the Nobel prize.

It was mostly left to others in the Trump administration to cast the attack in legal language and suggest that Maduro was being “brought to justice”. The Venezuelan leader was indicted in the US at the end of the first Trump term on corruption, drug trafficking and other offences.

Maduro is a dictator who has run an authoritarian state since 2013 with the help of elections widely regarded as rigged. But the specific drug allegations made against him by the US are seen by most experts as flimsy, and would not represent convincing grounds under international or US law for the attack on Venezuela and Maduro’s abduction. In repeated statements, Trump has made clear he is more covetous of Venezuela’s oil than motivated by a desire to bring Maduro before a court, or deliver democracy to the people of Venezuela.

Hours after ousting Maduro, Trump said US were ready to move in to fix Venezuela’s decrepit, sanctions-ravaged oil industry. “We’ll be selling large amounts of oil,” he said.

The international laws and norms Trump has barged through had already been loosened by previous US administrations. The operation most closely resembles the 1990 invasion of Panama and forced surrender of its strongman, by the first Bush administration.

That was followed by the younger George Bush with the invasion of Iraq on false grounds, and his administration’s broad use of rendition of torture. Barack Obama failed to hold his predecessor’s administration to account and pursued his own legally questionable drone assassination campaign against suspected terrorists.

These are arguably discrete acts of hypocrisy by earlier presidents, who claimed exceptions from international laws in the pursuit of US interests, but mostly embraced global norms in the knowledge that the “rules-based system” overwhelmingly favoured America.

Trump has complete disdain for that system. He looks at the world through the eyes of a 19th-century imperialist, but with 21st-century weapons.

It is unclear how far Trump intends to go in Venezuela to advance his aims, but he made clear on Saturday that the “American armada” would remain poised in the region “until United States demands have been fully met and fully satisfied” – demands that are likely to include a takeover of Venezuela’s oil industry.

Trump said Maduro’s deputy, Delcy Rodríguez, was ready to cooperate with Washington and that he had other people in mind to put in place. It is unclear whether Maduro’s supporters have the capacity or will to resist a US takeover, or whether any rebel groups will take the opportunity to make a move. A tranquil outcome seems a remote prospect.

...

...

What unfolded overnight in Venezuela will cause immediate anxiety to governments like Iran and Denmark, against which Trump has expressed enthusiasm for taking radical action.

In recent days, Trump has said the US would come to the defence of Iranian anti-government protesters, and his officials have kept up a drumbeat of threats to take control of Greenland by any necessary means. Last month, the Danish Defence Intelligence Service labelled the US as a security risk, a declaration that would have been unthinkable just a short time ago for a Nato ally.

In his press conference on Saturday, Trump added Cuba to the list of countries in his sights, suggesting it was “very similar” to Venezuela “in the sense that we want to help the people in Cuba”. His secretary of state, Marco Rubio, added that Havana should feel “concerned” in the wake of the events in Venezuela.

It accelerates the slide from a mostly rules-based world to one of competing spheres of influence, to be determined by armed might and the readiness to use it. One US commentator, David Rothkopf, called it the “Putinization of US foreign policy”.

Russian commentators have frequently suggested that Latin America lies in America’s domain just as Ukraine was under the Russian shadow. Vladimir Putin thinks the same of much of eastern Europe. Xi Jinping will draw his own conclusions.

The peril made brutally clear in the first few days of 2026 is one that will ultimately be faced by everyone.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/03/putin-russia-us-foreign-policy-venezuela

Maduro and wife are suffering the effects of drug withdrawal  :D

Quote:

“Putinization of US foreign policy”

More like NATOnisation of Yugoslavia in1999.

A Manhattan trial of Maduro would be held just a few blocks from City Hall.

Mamdani major butthurt is predicted  ;)

tallowood wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 1:36pm:

[ More like NATOnisation of Yugoslavia in1999.

Russki propaganda. The Serb thug stayed in charge and Kosovo had UN supervision until independence.

Leroy wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:13pm:

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 12:06pm: Leroy wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:57am: thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 11:51am: chimera wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:58am: Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 10:34am: This time. Trump helps the cause directly and efficiently. . Speaking during a news conference on Saturday, Trump said the US would “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition”. During Saturday’s news conference, Trump said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country”. He added that his administration’s actions “will make the people of Venezuela rich, independent and safe”. Worthy words from Trump, but will he achieve it? In the US, polls show many people who elected Trump in 2024 won't do so in the midterms, because the cost-of-living remains a burden for many, despite Trump's promises.  Quote: This will follow the great win in Vietnam and victory in Afghanistan, both being a triumph for Trump. Emperor Hirohito has bowed in respect to Sir DJ Trump and will make Australia prosperous in The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Trump may sell Colombia to him. (pass....) So Trump is more concerned about doing the right thing instead of mid term voting, so undemocratic of him. "Doing the right thing" includes reducing cost of living pressures in the US, which he has failed to do (according to polls).  I won't hold my breath expecting a positive outcome for low income groups in Venezuela. [quote]I was going to suggest you ring the manager but with so many lefties ringing the manager at the moment you would be on hold for a while. Triumphant Mamdani and Sanders have the platforms to address the manager - he would be wise to listen.

770,000 Venezuelians will be able to return to Venezuela saving America billions and billions of dollars, freeing up accommodation, welfare, strain on health care and pressure on schools.[/quote]

Refugees aren't the cause of the cost of living crisis in the US.

Indeed the US economy would shrink if refugees working on farms were expelled.



Quote:

You are happy the people of Venezuela have gained this opportunity to rebuild their country

Yes


Quote:

or do you prefer them to live under Maduro?.

No; after a brief period of reduction of poverty under socialist Chavez (who won a popular election over  the US supported RW dictator), which I and the population did support,  Maduro mismanaged the fall in the global oil price on which the socialist economy depended. 

Let's see what Trump can do; like I said, I won't hold my breath because he is even failing to assist low income groups in the US, despite - or because of his global tarrifs - regarding which the jury is still out (and indeed SCOTUS is  considering the legality of the tarrifs, apart from their economic effectiveness).  

Captain Nemo wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 12:58pm:

......Hours after ousting Maduro, Trump said US were ready to move in to fix Venezuela’s decrepit, sanctions-ravaged oil industry. “We’ll be selling large amounts of oil,” he said........

A mostly excellent analysis by the Guardian, except for the excerpt above which perhaps reveals the Guardian's ideological leanings:  Trump claimed he would rebuild the oil industry to make Venezuelans prosperous again, whereas the Guardian wording  suggests he will be selling oil to benefit US interests.

....most likely true?.....

But of course the Guardian, like almost everyone, professes allegiance to a "rules based system" which doesn't - and can't - exist, so long as the UNSC veto exists.

The most important factor of the Biden term was that he allowed a foreigner to enter USA illegally and to break into a house owned by an American and steal it by Squatters rights.
Pretty much sums it all up.

Jasin wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 3:43pm:

The most important factor of the Biden term was that he allowed a foreigner to enter USA illegally and to break into a house owned by an American and steal it by Squatters rights. Pretty much sums it all up.

A vacant house, when side-walks of US cities are marred by tents occupied by the homeless?

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 3:49pm:

Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 3:43pm: The most important factor of the Biden term was that he allowed a foreigner to enter USA illegally and to break into a house owned by an American and steal it by Squatters rights. Pretty much sums it all up. A vacant house, when side-walks of US cities are marred by tents occupied by the homeless?

Maybe you should buy a house for a homeless person then TGD?
You know a lot of homeless people deserve to be homeless - karma for the evil.

Jasin wrote on Jan 4^th, 2026 at 3:55pm:

thegreatdivide wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 3:49pm: Jasin wrote on Jan 4th, 2026 at 3:43pm: The most important factor of the Biden term was that he allowed a foreigner to enter USA illegally and to break into a house owned by an American and steal it by Squatters rights. Pretty much sums it all up. A vacant house, when side-walks of US cities are marred by tents occupied by the homeless? Maybe you should buy a house for a homeless person then TGD?

I can't fix the dysfunctional Thatcherite-Neoclassical macro-economy ruining the entire world at present.

One house won't fix it....


Quote:

You know a lot of homeless people deserve to be homeless - karma for the evil.

Ah - your ignorant, blind RW ideology on full display, blaming the victims of macroeconomic dysfunction for their plight.

Deplorable. 

fyi, the real evil in the world at present is Neoclassical orthodoxy which is forcing austerity onto supposedly indebted governments, as per Neoclassical dogma.

Every currency-issuing government can afford to house all its citizens, most of all the US.

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q70/921/bc7CJf.png

https://www.financialexpress.com/world-news/what-is-fafo-trump-administrations-big-message-to-the-world-after-nicholas-capturenbsp/4096728/

There’s no such thing as meaningful “neutrality” for a country that isn’t actually neutral. Switzerland can pull it off because it genuinely keeps its head down and shuts up. Australia and New Zealand doesn’t do that, and never really has. In the real world, countries like ours line up with someone whether they admit it or not. And the list of options isn’t endless, it’s basically the US, China, and maybe Russia at a distant third.

Take Venezuela. What the US does there isn’t really about Venezuela at all; it’s about the bigger chess game with China and Russia. You don’t have to like that, but pretending it isn’t the case doesn’t change anything. Frankly, Maduro and Co might have benefited from looking at a map. The US was never going to tolerate a China-Russia-Iran-aligned government sitting right on its doorstep.

Does this “send a message” to Russia or China? Maybe. But it’s pretty optimistic to think either of them care much about Western moral grandstanding. China is going after Taiwan regardless of how loudly we talk about the status quo, and Russia has shown for years that it treats sovereignty as optional... using chemical weapons overseas to kill opponents being just one example. If we’re keeping score on breaches of international norms, that’s a pretty big one.

https://i.ibb.co/BVvY2NkB/FB-IMG-1767571040222.jpg