Key Statements by Trump on the Mission Capturing Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro

During a media briefing in Florida, President Trump disclosed pivotal information regarding the U.S. military operation in Venezuela.

From his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump outlined the strategy behind the seizure of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores, both facing indictments from a U.S court.

US Forces Conduct Fortified Assault in Caracas

President Trump described the overnight mission against the Venezuelan regime as 'an exceptional military campaign,' incorporating tactical resources across multiple domains: air, land, and sea. Enhanced capabilities in intelligence, space, and cyber operations were reportedly utilized as well.

General Dan Caine, head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, detailed that Operation 'Absolute Resolve' involved over 150 military aircraft, such as fighters, bombers, electronic warfare systems, reconnaissance planes, and drones. Certain resources were tasked with neutralizing Venezuelan defenses and facilitating covert insertions and extractions.

Trump noted the operation targeted a robust military site in central Caracas, where Maduro was taken into custody during the nighttime hours. The U.S. leveraged tactical expertise to plunge Caracas into darkness, leading to the dominance over Venezuelan troops.

Zero Casualties and No Losses in Equipment for US Military

Trump confirmed at the press briefing that the U.S. forces emerged from the operation unscathed, with no fatalities or lost equipment reported.

He relayed to Fox News that an American helicopter sustained serious damage but did not delve into specifics regarding injury severity. Gen. Caine corroborated that the helicopter remained operational despite the damage.

Describing the operation, Trump heralded it as one of the most breathtaking and effective demonstrations of U.S. military supremacy, drawing comparisons to the drone strike on Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and other notable military actions.

US to Manage Venezuela Before Election

One central topic from the president's address was the administration’s intention to govern Venezuela until it is possible to perform a safe and legitimate transition of power.

Details regarding the duration and method of U.S. governance remain vague. By Venezuelan law, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez should inherit leadership, but Trump emphasized Rodríguez has little option other than accepting American guidance.

Trump highlighted the officials integral to this management strategy, with prominent figures like Stephen Miller and Marco Rubio standing by his side during the announcement.

Big US Oil Firms Eyeing Venezuela

Trump also revealed plans for major U.S. energy companies to enter Venezuela, investing billions to repair and overhaul the debilitated oil infrastructure, ultimately generating profit for the nation.

Given Venezuela's standing as the holder of the largest confirmed oil reserves, tensions have been simmering as the U.S. seized oil shipments recently. Trump criticized Caracas for reportedly misusing oil revenue to finance unlawful activities, claiming the U.S. endeavored to reclaim its oil interests.

Preparedness for Subsequent Military Action

During the briefing, Trump declared the U.S. readiness to initiate another, larger military campaign in Venezuela if necessary.

Initially anticipating the need for a secondary operation, Trump suggested this follow-up might now be unnecessary, considering the operational success achieved with the first strike.