'Come Get Me': White House Shares Old Maduro Clip After His Capture

Washington: The White House on Sunday posted a video on social media showing a past clip of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro daring US President Donald Trump to “come get me, don’t be late.” The release came just a day after US forces captured Maduro and his wife in a dramatic military operation in Venezuela's capital, Caracas.

The video clip used by the White House is from months ago. In it, Maduro taunted Trump, seemingly confident that no foreign power could seize him. By Sunday, the scene had changed, US forces had carried out a strike in Venezuela, and Maduro was in US custody.

Why is the White House sharing this old clip?

The message from the White House was blunt. Officials shared the clip to highlight what they described as a reversal of Maduro’s defiance. The montage pairs snapshots of Maduro's challenge with images of his recent capture. US leaders are using it to underline what they call the success of their operation against a leader they accuse of drug trafficking and terrorism.

The White House posted the video on X with the caption, "Nicolas Maduro had his chance — until he didn’t. The Trump Admin will always defend American citizens against all threats, foreign and domestic."

Nicolas Maduro had his chance — until he didn’t.

The Trump Admin will always defend American citizens against all threats, foreign and domestic. 🇺🇸🦅 pic.twitter.com/eov3GbBXf4

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 4, 2026

How did Maduro end up captured?

US special forces reportedly attacked Maduro’s compound in a pre-dawn operation. He and his wife, Cilia Flores, were taken into custody and flown to New York, where they face federal charges, including drug related offences. The raid was described by US officials as part of an effort to dismantle narco-terror networks they link to Venezuela’s leadership.

The capture has triggered strong reactions around the world. Some nations have condemned the US action as a breach of national sovereignty. Others have praised the operation as a firm stance against drug trafficking and authoritarian rule.

What’s next?

The dramatic turn from taunts to detention has reshaped the narrative around US-Venezuela relations almost overnight. Officials in Caracas have denounced the operation, while Trump supporters in the US have hailed it as a major victory. International observers and legal experts are now debating the legality and long-term impact of the raid.