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Trump says US to run Venezuela until ‘safe, judicious transition’ after Maduro capture

Trump says US to run Venezuela until 'safe, judicious transition' after Maduro capture

FLORIDA: United States President Donald Trump on Saturday said the US will “run” Venezuela until a political transition can occur, after the spectacular US military operation to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro from the country.

“We’re going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition,” Trump told a press conference, adding that US forces were ready to conduct a second, “much bigger” wave of strikes if necessary.

Trump said he would allow American oil companies to head into Venezuela to tap its massive crude reserves after a US military operation to seize Maduro.

“We’re going to have our very large United States oil companies, the biggest anywhere in the world, go in, spend billions of dollars, fix the badly broken infrastructure, the oil infrastructure, and start making money for the country,” Trump added.

However, he said that US oil embargo on Venezuela remains in force.

The US president said that the military caused a blackout in the Venezuelan capital Caracas so it could carry out a stunning operation to seize Maduro.

“It was dark. The lights of Caracas were largely turned off due to a certain expertise that we have,” Trump added.

The US military operation to extract the Venezuelan president in a nighttime raid in Caracas took “months of planning and rehearsal,” and more than 150 US aircraft were used, top US General Dan Caine told reporters.

“The word integration does not explain the sheer complexity of such a mission, an extraction so precise — it involved more than 150 aircraft launching across the Western Hemisphere,” Caine told the joint press conference with Trump.

Shortly before the presser, Trump posted a photo of the Venezuelan leader in custody on a US naval ship and wearing both a blindfold and handcuffs.

“Nicolas Maduro on board the USS Iwo Jima,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, along with a picture showing Maduro hours after he was snatched by US forces.

The Venezuelan leader had on what appeared to be noise-canceling ear muffs and grey Nike-branded sweatpants and a jacket.

Earlier today, US forces captured Maduro and his wife after launching a “large-scale strike” on the South American 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,” Trump said on Truth Social.

US Attorney General Pamela Bondi later said that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were 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,” she wrote in a post on X.

The couple, she said, would soon “face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts”.

CDA organizes successful organic market at F-7 Park

CDA organizes successful organic market at F-7 Park

ISLAMABAD, JAN 3 /DNA/ – Taking a significant step towards promoting a healthy lifestyle among citizens in the Federal Capital, Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation (MCI) successfully organized the first Organic Market in F-7 Park on Saturday. It is important to note that this market was not just a shopping center but also proved to be a platform for healthy living and community bonding.

Set against the backdrop of pleasant winter sunshine, the market enhanced the park’s natural beauty. Stalls offering natural, chemical-free, fresh and healthy food items and products attracted citizens. Special activities for children and families were also arranged at the market, making it a beautiful blend of recreation and health.

A total of 20 selected vendors set up their stalls at the market, which included fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade bakery items, delicacies prepared by artisans and high-quality cheese. Citizens greatly appreciated these natural products and enjoyed shopping, preferring them as a healthy alternative.

On this occasion, citizens also praised the initiative, saying that such health-conscious efforts and fresh products doubled the enjoyment of shopping. Consumers said that the availability of such healthy and quality products is an excellent initiative.

The arrangement of the first organic market emphasized a healthy environment, well organized layout, soft music and strict implementation of a ‘Zero Littering Policy.’ Citizens were urged to pay special attention to keeping the park clean.

Chief Officer of the Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation (MCI), Dr. Anam Fatima, said that this initiative is part of our effort to promote parks as shared community spaces. She added that this first organic market has proven to be a successful experience, showing that citizens are increasingly adopting awareness regarding a healthy lifestyle and quality products. She further said that the CDA and MCI intend to continue such initiatives in the future.

On this occasion, Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, said that this market is also a means of providing our citizens access to healthy products in their nearest places. Chairman CDA said that by organizing such successful markets, we are not only laying the foundation for a healthy society but are also encouraging citizens towards the positive and responsible use of green spaces. He further said that we intend to organize similar healthy markets in various areas of the Federal Capital, Islamabad, so that more citizens can benefit.

Russia condemns US aggression against Venezuela

Russia condemns US aggression against Venezuela

MOSCOW: Russia has condemned a US attack on Venezuela, terming the move as “reprehensible” and a cause for concern, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

The ministry stated that it supports resolving the Venezuelan issue through negotiations. In a separate statement, Russia’s Foreign Ministry called the US action an act of “armed aggression” against Venezuela, urging restraint and warning against further escalation.

“The pretexts cited to justify these actions are untenable. Ideologically driven hostility has prevailed over practical pragmatism and a willingness to build relations based on trust and predictability,” the statement added.

Illegal travel bid to Spain foiled at Islamabad airport

Illegal travel bid to Spain foiled at Islamabad airport

ISLAMABAD, JAN 3: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Saturday foiled an attempt by a passenger to travel abroad using a fake Polish resident card at Islamabad International Airport.

An FIA official told APP that the passenger was intercepted by FIA Immigration staff while attempting to depart for Spain on flight EY-303. During routine immigration checks, the travel documents presented by the passenger were found to be suspicious.

He said the passenger was identified as Muhammad Aamir, a resident of Sheikhupura, who had presented a forged Polish resident card in an attempt to travel illegally to Spain. Upon verification, the document was confirmed to be fake.

The official said the passenger was immediately offloaded and taken into custody for further legal action. He was later shifted to the FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Circle, Islamabad, for detailed investigation and identification of the agent involved in the facilitation of the illegal travel attempt.

He added that FIA is continuing its crackdown against human trafficking and document fraud, particularly at airports, to curb illegal migration and protect national and international travel security.

The FIA has reiterated that strict legal action will be taken against individuals involved in the use or facilitation of fake travel documents, urging citizens to avoid illegal means of travelling abroad.

Army captain, soldier, civilian die in Burzil Pass snow slide

Army captain, soldier, civilian die in Burzil Pass snow slide

RAWALPINDI, JAN 3 /DNA/ – On night 2/3 January 2026, a Snow Clearance Operation was conducted, using heavy machinery to open Burzil Pass to facilitate operational movement of own forces in the area.

The snow clearance operation was led by Captain Asmad (age, 28 years and resident of Lahore). At around 2 AM on 03 January 26, while subject operation was ongoing, a snow slide triggered, resultantly Captain Asmad along with two soldiers and civilian machine operator (PWD) got entrapped. After intensive efforts, all four individuals were rescued from snow, however, condition of Captain Asmad, Sepoy Rizwan (age 32 years, resident of Attock) and Machine Operator Essa (resident of Astore) deteriorated and all three individuals embraced Shahadat.

These individuals rendered ultimate sacrifice by leading a challenging operation, in extreme weather conditions, to facilitate operational movement of forces. Their sacrifice and devotion to duty is testimony to the fact that all ranks of Pakistan Armed forces are determined to defend the motherland and will not hesitate to lay down their lives in the line of duty and devotion to cause.

Saudi Arabia to host conference on Yemen’s Southern cause

Saudi Arabia to host conference on Yemen’s Southern cause

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has announced it will host a comprehensive conference on Yemen’s southern issue, following a request from His Excellency Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, President of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, aimed at uniting all southern factions on a single platform to seek just and lasting solutions.

The decision to convene the conference comes in response to Dr. Al-Alimi’s appeal to Riyadh for a platform where all southern factions can discuss the southern cause. The initiative seeks to foster dialogue and develop a framework for peaceful resolution within Yemen’s broader political process.

A statement from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, dated December 30, 2025, highlighted that the southern cause has both historical and social dimensions, and that the only viable path to resolution is through dialogue within a comprehensive political solution in Yemen.

Objectives

Saudi Arabia urged all southern factions to actively participate in the conference to craft a comprehensive vision for the southern cause. The aim is to develop solutions that address the legitimate aspirations of the southern people while ensuring sustainable peace and stability in Yemen.

The Kingdom emphasized that the conference aligns with the strong bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Yemen and reflects their shared interests in promoting security, stability, and political resolution under the current circumstances.

Background

The southern issue in Yemen is rooted in historical and social complexities. Previous attempts to resolve tensions have emphasized dialogue, political inclusivity, and adherence to Yemen’s unity, with the ultimate goal of delivering justice and stability to the southern regions.

Saudi Arabia’s support for convening this conference underscores its ongoing role as a mediator and partner in facilitating Yemen’s path toward peace.

Army officer, soldier among three martyred in GB snow clearance operation

Army officer, soldier among three martyred in GB snow clearance operation

RAWALPINDI, JAN 3: A Pakistan Army captain, along with a soldier and a civilian machine operator, was martyred during a snow clearance operation in Gilgit Baltistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.

In a statement, the military’s media wing said that the snow clearance operation was conducted, using heavy machinery, to open Burzil Pass to facilitate operational movement of own forces in the area on night between January 2 and 3.

The snow clearance operation was led by Captain Asmad, 28, it added.

“At around 2am on January 3, 2026, while subject operation was ongoing, a snow slide triggered, resultantly Captain Asmad along with two soldiers and civilian machine operator (PWD) got entrapped,” said the ISPR.

After intensive efforts, all four individuals were rescued from snow, however, condition of Captain Asmad, Sepoy Rizwan, 32, and machine operator Essa deteriorated and all three individuals embraced martyrdom.

“These individuals rendered ultimate sacrifice by leading a challenging operation, in extreme weather conditions, to facilitate operational movement of forces,” read the statement.

Their sacrifice and devotion to duty is testimony to the fact that all ranks of Pakistan Armed forces are determined to defend the motherland and will not hesitate to lay down their lives in the line of duty and devotion to cause, the ISPR added.

Islamabad hopes regional efforts bring lasting peace to Yemen

Islamabad hopes regional efforts bring lasting peace to Yemen

ISLAMABAD, JAN 3 /DNA/ – Pakistan welcomed the call by Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council to hold comprehensive talks in Riyadh and once again urges all Yemeni stakeholders to engage in good faith toward a negotiated political solution based on agreed parameters.

Pakistan reaffirms its steadfast support for the unity and territorial integrity of Yemen.

Guided by the principles of unity and brotherhood, Pakistan hopes that regional efforts will contribute to bringing lasting peace and stability to Yemen.

Deputy PM Dar arrives in Beijing for strategic dialogue

Deputy PM Dar arrives in Beijing for strategic dialogue

BEIJING, JAN 3 /DNA/ – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar arrived in Beijing this evening. In Beijing, he will co-chair the 7th Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday.

DPM/FM will also attend events marking the beginning of the 75th year of Pakistan-China diplomatic ties, with both countries planning initiatives and commemorative activities throughout 2026.

US hits Venezuela with ‘large-scale strike’, captures President Maduro

US hits Venezuela with 'large-scale strike', captures President Maduro

WASHINGTON, JAN 3: President Donald Trump said Saturday that US forces had captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro after launching a “large-scale strike” on the South American 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,” Trump said on Truth Social.

Trump said he would give a news conference at 11:00am (1600 GMT) at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

The US 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.

The United States has completed its military action in Venezuela after capturing leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, a US senator said Saturday, quoting Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

“He anticipates no further action in Venezuela now that Maduro is in US custody,” Senator Mike Lee, a Republican initially critical of the operation, wrote on X after what he said was a telephone call with Rubio.

Meanwhile, the Venezuelan vice president says govt does not know the whereabouts of Maduro or First Lady Cilia Flores.

The Venezuelan government said attacks also took place in the states of Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira, prompting Maduro to declare a national emergency and mobilise defence forces.

Earlier, US media outlets, including Fox News and CBS News, reported that the United States was conducting military strikes on the Caribbean country, in a dramatic escalation that Venezuelans had feared for weeks.

The blasts, accompanied by the sound of planes flying over the city, were heard around 2:00am (0600 GMT) Saturday, an AFP journalist said.

Explosions were also heard in La Guaira, north of the capital, where Caracas’s airport and port are located.

“Venezuela rejects, repudiates, and denounces before the international community the extremely serious military aggression perpetrated by the current government of the United States of America against Venezuelan territory and people,” the government of leftist President Nicolas Maduro said.

Trump administration officials are aware of reports of explosions and aircraft over Venezuela’s capital Caracas early on Saturday morning, CBS reporter Jennifer Jacobs posted on X.

Maduro has accused the Trump administration of seeking a change in government to gain access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves.

“At this moment they are bombing Caracas”, Colombian President Gustavo Petro posted on X. “Alert everyone — they have attacked Venezuela. They are bombing with missiles. The (Organisation of American States) and the UN must meet immediately.”

Petro, who did not provide further information or indicate the source of his assertions, has repeatedly expressed opposition to the US pressure campaign.

The US has made a major military buildup in the region, including an aircraft carrier, warships and advanced fighter jets stationed in the Caribbean.

Trump has announced a “blockade” of Venezuelan oil, expanded sanctions and staged more than two dozen strikes on vessels the US alleges were involved in trafficking drugs in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

Last week, Trump said the United States had “hit” an area in Venezuela where boats are loaded with drugs, marking the first known time Washington has carried out land operations in Venezuela since the pressure campaign began.

He did not say whether those strikes were carried out by the CIA or not. Other media outlets have reported that the spy agency was behind them.

Trump has accused the South American country of flooding the US with drugs, and his administration has for months been bombing boats originating in South America that it alleges were carrying drugs.

Many nations have condemned the attacks as extrajudicial killings and Maduro’s government has always denied any involvement with drug trafficking.

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