Behind closed doors at the Pentagon, Operation Absolute Resolve took shape over six months, blending cyber warfare, satellite intel, and allied tips to map Maduro's vulnerabilities. Trump, frustrated by years of sanctions failing to oust him, greenlit the strikes amid escalating drug flows and 2025 election disputes.
The assault began with EMP-like hacks crippling air defenses, paving way for B-1 bombers dropping payloads on key sites. Elite Delta Force units then stormed Maduro's compound, extracting him amid minimal resistance— a testament to meticulous planning.
The dual goals: Neutralize the 'narco-regime' and secure Venezuela's vast oil reserves for US firms. Trump touted it as 'liberation,' but critics warn of backlash from Russia and China.
This operation reshapes Latin American dynamics, potentially inspiring similar actions but risking wider conflict.
TL;DR
- Planning: 6 months of intel, cyber prep for Operation Absolute Resolve.
- Cyber phase: Disabled Venezuelan radars, communications pre-strike.
- Airstrikes: B-1 bombers hit 20+ targets Jan 3, 2026.
- Ground op: Delta Force captured Maduro in 20-minute raid.
- Motives: Drug trafficking indictments, disputed 2025 elections.
- Oil angle: Secure reserves for US companies post-capture.
- Trump role: Direct oversight, watched live from Situation Room.
- Resistance: Minimal; many Venezuelan troops defected.
- Casualties: Low US side; higher Venezuelan military.
- Outcome: Maduro in US custody, facing New York trial.
