
Sun Jan 04 06:04:01 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article based on it:
Summary:
The United States lifted airspace restrictions over the Caribbean on January 3, 2026, after a military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The couple were flown to New York City to face drug-trafficking and weapons charges. The airspace closure, attributed to safety concerns due to ongoing military activity, was lifted after the operation concluded.
News Article:
U.S. Lifts Caribbean Airspace Restrictions After Capturing Venezuelan President Maduro
Washington – The United States has lifted airspace restrictions over the Caribbean, which were put in place during a U.S. military operation resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The announcement was made by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy via social media platform X.
The airspace closure, initially implemented due to “safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing military activity” as stated by the Federal Aviation Administration, ended at 12:00 a.m. (0500 GMT) on January 3, 2026. Secretary Duffy assured airlines that they have been informed and would update their schedules accordingly.
The dramatic operation involved U.S. special forces seizing President Maduro and his wife in a pre-dawn raid, including air strikes around Caracas. The pair were then transported to New York City, where they face charges of drug-trafficking and weapons offenses. The situation is the culmination of heightened tensions and conflict between the US and Venezuela.