Incident Overview
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has publicly congratulated US President Donald Trump following significant developments in Venezuela involving President Nicolás Maduro. In a message shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Musk stated, “Congratulations, President Trump! This is a win for the world and a clear message to evil dictators everywhere.”
The felicitations from Elon Musk followed the announcement that the United States executed a rapid overnight military operation against Venezuela on January 3, 2026, resulting in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, First Lady Cilia Flores.
Background of Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro’s Capture
On January 3, 2026, US forces conducted a swift military operation in Caracas, apprehending Maduro along with his wife, First Lady Cilia Flores. This event came after several months of escalating pressure, including a US reward of $50 million for information leading to Maduro’s arrest, attributing his involvement to international drug trafficking activities. Maduro was subsequently transported out of Venezuela by US military aircraft, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing political crisis of the country.
Following the apprehension and exile of Maduro, US President Donald Trump announced that the United States would “run” Venezuela until a “safe, proper and judicious transition” could be guaranteed.
When questioned about the members of the group that would oversee this transition in Venezuela, Trump mentioned that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had engaged in discussions with Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. Trump informed reporters that Rodriguez expressed willingness to cooperate with Washington and was prepared to do “whatever” the US required.
Elon Musk Offers Broader Support
Elon Musk’s congratulatory message extended beyond words. The SpaceX CEO announced that his satellite internet company, Starlink, would provide free broadband service to Venezuela until February 2, ensuring sustained internet connectivity for Venezuelan citizens during this transitional period. On X (formerly Twitter), the company posted: “Starlink is providing free broadband service to the people of Venezuela through February 3, ensuring continued connectivity.” Quoting Starlink’s announcement, Elon Musk added, “In support of the people of Venezuela.”