January 1, Bold US Raid Seizes Maduro Overnight

Wyatt’s Take

• US troops snatch Venezuelan leader Maduro in daring nighttime operation.
• Mission required months of training and top-secret planning.
• Military showed American might; most troops safe and successful.

President Trump sent American forces into Venezuela at night to capture President Nicolás Maduro and bring him to face charges in the United States. He shared details at a news conference from his Florida home, saying Maduro was highly guarded in a fortress-like palace but couldn’t reach his safe room before the troops arrived.

“He didn’t get that space closed. He was trying to get into it, but he got bum-rushed right so fast that he didn’t get into that. We were prepared.”

General Dan Caine reported that U.S. troops practiced the raid for months, even building a replica of Maduro’s palace to perfect their moves. The operation was timed for darkness, with the lights of Caracas purposely turned off. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth called it a “massive joint military and law enforcement raid” that lasted under thirty minutes.

Locals heard explosions overnight, and Venezuela’s Vice President said some civilians and military were killed in the attack. Trump stated a few Americans were hurt but none killed, saying, “A couple of guys were hit, but they came back and they’re supposed to be in pretty good shape.”

Caine said one helicopter took fire but returned safely. The team waited four days for perfect weather and made their move as soon as skies cleared, sneaking in low and fast with support from fighter jets, bombers, and drones. Over 150 aircraft took part.

The operation, called “Absolute Resolve,” ended with Maduro and his wife flown to a U.S. warship and headed to New York. The Justice Department released an indictment accusing them both of narco-terrorism conspiracy. The raid marked a big step up from previous strikes on drug boats and cartel locations in the region.

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Wyatt Matters

This mission showed the power and resolve of Americans when facing down threats. It’s a reminder that standing up to bad actors keeps our country safe and freedom strong, no matter where trouble comes from.