President Donald Trump highlighted the success of a military operation that concluded on January 3rd with the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, during remarks to troops in North Carolina. Speaking at Fort Bragg, Trump described the action as a demonstration of U.S. Special forces’ power, emphasizing the speed and unprecedented precision of the maneuver. “What we did recently in Venezuela, nobody has ever seen anything like it,” he stated, detailing that the incursion at Fuerte Tiuna, Caracas, involved multiple attack and transport helicopters and was completed “literally, in a minute.”
Expert Insight:
According to Trump’s account, Maduro and former First Lady Cilia Flores were transported the same day to a federal prison in Fresh York, where they await trial on charges of narcoterrorism, and conspiracy. The President noted the assault involved overcoming complex security measures: “They had to go through steel doors. The steel was like paper mache,” he said of the defenses at the Venezuelan base.
During his address, Trump referenced a secret weapon system, the “descombobulador,” which he said was key to blocking Russian and Chinese defense systems deployed in Venezuela. “The Russian equipment didn’t operate. The Chinese equipment didn’t work. Everybody is trying to figure out why it didn’t work. They’ll figure it out someday, but it didn’t work,” he stated, alluding to the alleged inability of Venezuelan forces to respond to the air assault. He added that “it’s nice to be able to fly without getting shot at,” suggesting the effectiveness of the U.S. Technology used in the operation.
Three U.S. Helicopter pilots were seriously injured during the operation, sustaining leg wounds upon landing. Trump praised the crew’s bravery and the involvement of snipers stationed on the helicopters, who neutralized machine guns causing the injuries. “Those pilots were incredible and really brave. I may see some of them very soon,” he added, noting plans to meet with members of the special forces and their families.
U.S. Sources reported eighty-three fatalities and over 112 injuries among Venezuelan forces during the assault. Trump affirmed that no U.S. Military personnel were killed during the action, which began with bombings of strategic targets. The operation, dubbed Absolute Determination, was described by the President as “precise” and “incredible,” and cited as an example of the “military might” of the United States to ensure a dominant position in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Trump also praised interim Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez and announced that major U.S. Oil companies have been invited to rebuild Venezuela’s energy industry. He also reported the seizure of oil tankers and increased oversight of the Venezuelan oil sector.
Maduro, who pleaded not guilty in U.S. Court, faces charges of drug trafficking and corruption, with a court hearing scheduled for March 17th. The U.S. State Department had offered a $50 million reward for information leading to his arrest or conviction. The capture and extradition are part of the U.S. Government’s policy to strengthen its influence in the region and send, according to Trump, “a message of respect and fear to potential adversaries around the planet.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the name of the operation to capture Nicolás Maduro?
The operation was named Absolute Determination, according to President Trump.
Where did President Trump deliver his remarks about the operation?
President Trump delivered his remarks to troops at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
What charges are Maduro and Flores facing?
Maduro and Cilia Flores are facing charges of narcoterrorism and conspiracy.
As Venezuela transitions under the leadership of Delcy Rodríguez, and the U.S. Begins to oversee the rebuilding of its energy sector, what challenges and opportunities might arise in the coming months?
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