Trump Celebrates 'Massive Win' in Mar-a-Lago Press Conference on Maduro Capture
Published Date: 3 Jan, 2026
January 03, 2026
President Donald Trump took center stage at his Mar-a-Lago resort this afternoon for a triumphant press conference, declaring the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro a "historic victory" and one of the most significant achievements in U.S. foreign policy history.
Boisterous Praise for Military and Justice Team
Standing before a backdrop of American and military flags, Trump was joined by Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and top Pentagon brass. He lavished praise on the special forces operators who executed the overnight raid, calling them "the finest warriors on Earth" and revealing plans for a White House ceremony to honor them.
"Nobody does it better than our military," Trump said. "They went in quietly, grabbed the narco-kingpin and his wife, and brought them out without a scratch on our guys. Perfect mission. Perfect."
He confirmed Maduro and Cilia Flores are now in secure U.S. custody, heading to New York for processing on federal charges.
Justice Promised: "No Deals, No Mercy"
Attorney General Bondi outlined the indictment's gravity, reiterating counts of narco-terrorism conspiracy, massive cocaine importation, and illegal weapons possession. "This is not about politics," she asserted. "This is about a criminal enterprise that flooded our streets with poison and threatened our national security."
Trump interrupted to emphasize: "There will be no plea deals for this guy. He's going to trial, and the world will see everything he's done. Full transparency, full justice."
When asked about trial timeline, Trump predicted "very soon" proceedings, adding with a grin, "I think the jury will be very interested."
Vision for Venezuela's Future
The president expressed optimism about Venezuela's path forward, stating the U.S. is ready to support a "democratic transition" and work with opposition leaders long recognized by Washington. He warned Chavismo holdouts against disruption: "If they try anything stupid, we'll handle it. But I believe the Venezuelan people want freedom now."
Trump brushed off international criticism from Russia and others as "sour grapes from countries that loved doing dirty deals with Maduro." He highlighted quiet endorsements from several regional leaders and teased upcoming diplomatic announcements.
On congressional briefings, Trump maintained the operation was fully within executive authority to combat transnational threats, noting key lawmakers were informed post-mission.
Political Boost and Broader Message
The event, broadcast live across major networks, energized Trump's base and dominated headlines. Supporters outside Mar-a-Lago cheered audible through open doors, waving flags and signs reading "America Strong."
Trump tied the success to his broader agenda: "This is what winning looks like. No more weak leadership letting criminals run wild. We're taking our country back, and we're helping good people around the world take theirs back too."
As reporters filed out, the president ended on a characteristic note: "A lot of great things are happening. This is just the beginning. Believe me."
With Maduro's arrival on U.S. soil imminent, the press conference cemented the operation as a signature early triumph of Trump's second term, blending military success with the promise of courtroom accountability.
The world now awaits the next chapters: Venezuela's political evolution and a trial that could expose decades of alleged corruption at the highest levels.
Date: 3 Jan, 2026
