The Trump Administration Hasn’t Forgotten America’s Backyard (warontherocks.com)

• Maduro captured on Jan. 3, 2026, by U.S. forces
• Preceded by military buildup in Caribbean and anti-drug strikes
• Focus shifted from Cuba to Iran after Feb. 28 strikes

"On Jan. 3, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, now imprisoned in the United States. The operation followed a buildup of U.S. military assets in the Caribbean and strikes against suspected drug trafficking boats. After Maduro's capture, the administration appeared to pivot toward regime change in Cuba, but U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran beginning Feb. 28 shifted attention and resources."