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SHOTLIST:

CARACAS, VENEZUELA (JAN. 03, 2026) (VENEZUELA STATE TELEVISION - RESTRICTED)

1. VENEZUELAN INTERIOR MINISTER DIOSDADO CABELLO SPEAKING

SCRIPT

Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello appeared on state television Saturday, Jan. 3, calling for public composure after overnight US airstrikes targeted several locations across the country.

In a televised address, Cabello emphasized that the nation's population remains organized and prepared.

His appearance followed a statement from US President Donald Trump, who announced that the US had "successfully" carried out a "large-scale strike" against Venezuela.

Trump confirmed the "large scale" strike on his social media platform Truth Social, claiming Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were "captured and flown out of the country."

Earlier, Venezuela’s government accused the US of attacking civilian and military installations in multiple states, and declared ‌a national ‌emergency.

The attacks came after months of US pressure on Maduro, accusing him of being involved in drug trafficking. The Venezuelan leader had denied the claims and expressed readiness for talks.

Venezuela's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said they were "unaware" of Maduro's whereabouts, demanding from Trump "proof of life of President Maduro."



Writing by Ayse Elif Erdis