US Captures Maduro, Reshapes Latin America Ties Amid China Rivalry

US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Jan 3, 2026, unilaterally deposing him and securing new oil deals with the post-Maduro government. Washington has intensified pressure on Cuba, imposed new tariffs, and declined to renew USMCA, triggering renegotiations. The moves signal a more assertive US posture in Latin America, with implications for regional alignment and China's influence.