US special forces successfully carried out a lightning raid that took down Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s bodyguards, effectively ending his 12-year rule in a matter of hours. This operation, named Operation Absolute Resolve, is being hailed as one of the most efficient raids conducted by the US since the Cold War era. The mission involved crippling air defenses in Caracas and eliminating a group of elite Cuban guards protecting Maduro and his spouse.
While the operation has received acclaim for its swift execution, global leaders have criticized the mission for bypassing Congressional approval and violating international law. US President Donald Trump had previously accused Venezuelan leaders of involvement in drug trafficking, a claim that has been disputed.
The planning for the raid was kept confidential by Trump administration officials to maintain surprise. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed Congress members that the operation in Venezuela aimed to combat drug traffickers rather than instigate regime change.
Despite the requirement for Congressional approval for military actions abroad, there have been instances where presidents have authorized military operations without consulting Congress. Several US media outlets were aware of the raid but refrained from reporting to safeguard national security and protect American lives.
Special forces meticulously prepared for the raid by creating a replica of Maduro’s residence and studying his daily routines. They also analyzed the layout of his safe house and strategized extraction routes. General Dan Caine, the highest-ranking US military officer, confirmed that the operation was primed for action, awaiting the perfect moment to strike.
The mission, which involved a coordinated effort from air, land, and sea forces, included over 150 military aircraft launching from 20 bases and US Navy vessels. The airstrikes targeted locations in Caracas, resulting in casualties, including civilians. The assault swiftly neutralized Venezuela’s air defenses, placing the capital under US control.
Following the operation, Maduro was apprehended and transported to the US, where he faced legal proceedings. President Trump hinted at US involvement in rebuilding Venezuela’s infrastructure and expressed interest in the country’s oil reserves. He emphasized US commitment to overseeing Venezuela’s oil industry temporarily, with a focus on leveraging American oil companies’ expertise.
The successful mission to extract Maduro marked a significant development in US-Venezuela relations and raised questions regarding America’s future role in the region’s oil sector.