Trump Announces Major Operation Capturing Maduro in Venezuela

UPDATE: In a dramatic press conference from Mar-a-Lago, Florida, President Donald Trump confirmed the successful US military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during an assault on a fortified military base in Caracas early on July 15, 2023.

This unprecedented operation, dubbed “Absolute Resolve,” involved over 150 aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and drones, demonstrating the full might of the US military. Trump described the mission as an “extraordinary military operation” that utilized advanced intelligence and cyber capabilities to disable Venezuelan defenses.

During the operation, US forces executed airstrikes and successfully infiltrated Maduro’s stronghold, overwhelming local military forces. Trump stated, “This was one of the most stunning, effective, and powerful displays of American military might and competence in American history.”

No US military personnel were killed, and despite earlier reports of damage to an American helicopter, it remains operational. “We actually assumed that a second wave would be necessary, but now it’s probably not,” Trump indicated, emphasizing the operation’s success.

The ramifications of this operation are significant. Trump declared that the US would govern Venezuela until a proper election could be organized, stating, “We’re going to run Venezuela until such time as we can do a safe, proper, and judicious transition.” This raises questions about the future governance of the country, as Maduro’s vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, is legally next in line but will be pressured to comply with US oversight.

In addition to securing political control, Trump announced that major US oil companies are poised to invest billions into Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, which holds the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves. “We built Venezuela’s oil industry, and we intend to take it back,” Trump reiterated, accusing the Maduro regime of misusing oil revenues to fund criminal activities.

This situation is developing rapidly, with Trump signaling readiness for further military actions if deemed necessary. The international community is closely watching as the US asserts control over Venezuela’s political and economic future.

As the situation unfolds, the global implications of this operation could reshape relations not only in Venezuela but across the Latin American region. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent and evolving story.