US special forces constructed a life-size replica of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s residence fortress before orchestrating his removal from power. A select team, aided by an insider within the Venezuelan government, meticulously monitored Maduro for months, gathering intelligence on his daily routines and even details about his pets.
Dubbed “Operation Absolute Resolve,” the mission was meticulously planned and executed by elite US troops to infiltrate Maduro’s secure compound in Caracas. The operation, a bold military intervention in Latin America reminiscent of the Cold War era, was shrouded in secrecy, with Congress uninformed and military chiefs waiting for the opportune moment to strike.
The element of surprise was crucial, leading to successful execution despite criticisms from countries like Brazil and Russia. Although initially approved by President Donald Trump, the mission was delayed for optimal weather conditions before being greenlit. General Dan Caine, the top military official, highlighted the readiness and patience of US military personnel leading up to the mission’s initiation.
Following the president’s order at a late hour, the operation commenced under cover of darkness, lasting approximately two hours and twenty minutes via air, land, and sea. The capture of Maduro drew global attention, with Brazil’s President Lula da Silva cautioning against the concerning precedent set by the violent seizure of a sovereign leader.