A decisive US military operation in Venezuela bypasses Congress, leaving Venezuelan leadership in disarray and raising questions about constitutional oversight.
Story Highlights
- Operation Absolute Resolve sees over 150 US aircraft involved in Venezuela.
- US forces capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
- Venezuelan and Cuban casualties reported, sparking international reactions.
- US aims to neutralize narco-trafficking linked to Maduro’s regime.
Trump’s Bold Move in Venezuela
On January 3, 2026, President Trump ordered a significant military intervention in Venezuela, named Operation Absolute Resolve. This operation, involving over 150 aircraft, was primarily targeted at capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The operation was executed without prior notice to Congress, highlighting the urgency and the administration’s resolve to address the narco-terrorism threats linked to Maduro’s regime.
The operation unfolded in the early hours, with reports of at least seven explosions in key areas around Caracas, including La Guaira and Baruta. The US forces, comprising Delta Force and the FBI Hostage Rescue Team, successfully captured Maduro, signaling a critical shift in the power dynamics of the region. This action has been framed as necessary to curb the narco-trafficking routes and the influence of Cuban forces supporting Maduro.
Historical Context of US-Venezuela Relations
The tensions between the United States and Venezuela have been escalating since Maduro assumed power in 2013. His regime has been marred by allegations of narco-terrorism and defiance against US sanctions. The US had previously recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó in 2019, leading to further diplomatic strains. December 2025 witnessed increased US military presence in the region, with fighter jet incursions seen as rehearsals for the January strikes.
Maduro’s public mockery of US threats and his refusal of exile offers further pushed the US to act decisively. The strategic locations in northern Venezuela, such as La Guaira port and Higuerote Airport, became focal points for these military actions, aimed at dismantling smuggling networks tied to the Tren de Aragua gang.
Implications and International Reactions
Following the operation, Venezuela has been plunged into a state of emergency, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming the role of acting president. The situation has resulted in power outages and increased instability in the region. Cuban forces, who were protecting Maduro, suffered significant casualties, prompting Cuba to declare days of mourning.
Economically, the strikes have disrupted key ports and airports, affecting both local and international trade. Politically, the move has strengthened US allies in the region while straining relationships with Cuba. There is also an ongoing debate in the US about the constitutional implications of bypassing Congress for such a significant military action.
Sources:
2026 United States Strikes in Venezuela
Venezuela Strike: Jets Over Caracas, Maduro’s Capture
