The U.S. conducted a targeted military operation in Venezuela on January 3, 2026, launching strikes on Caracas to capture President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who now face U.S. federal charges including narco-terrorism. This limited intervention, described officially as a special operation rather than full-scale invasion, facilitated an interim government and prompted diplomatic reestablishment between Washington and Caracas on March 5, signaling de-escalation toward stability, oil sector investment, and democratic transition. Congressional war powers resolutions seeking to curb further actions gained initial traction but face hurdles. With sanctions under review for lifting and no troop deployments announced, trader consensus reflects low escalation risk absent major provocations like regional instability or energy crises.