The United States military has conducted a high-stakes operation in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a dramatic raid on the capital city of Caracas.
According to a briefing by US Military Chief, General Mark Milley, the operation was carried out at the request of the US Department of Justice, and with the approval of President Donald Trump. The operation aimed to bring Maduro and his wife to justice, following a months-long investigation and planning process.
“We had over 150 aircraft involved in this operation, including F-22, F-35, F-18, EA-18, E-2, and B-52 bombers, as well as support aircraft,” General Milley said. “We had a joint force that was able to neutralize the Venezuelan air defense, and then our helicopters were able to make it to the target area.”
The operation was carried out in coordination with US intelligence agencies, including the CIA, NSA, and NGA, and was a culmination of months of planning and preparation. According to General Milley, the operation was successful, with all US aircraft returning safely.
The US Department of Justice has announced a reward of $50 million for information leading to the capture of Maduro, who is wanted for his alleged involvement in human rights abuses and corruption. However, the operation has been widely condemned by other countries, including Russia, Iran, Colombia, and Cuba.
The capture of Maduro has sparked a range of reactions, with some hailing it as a major victory for democracy, while others have criticized it as a violation of international law. The situation is still unfolding, and it remains to be seen what the consequences will be for Maduro and his regime.
In related news, protests against the Iranian government continue, with reports of violence and arrests in several cities. The US has imposed sanctions on several Iranian officials, and has called for the release of detained protesters.
The operation in Venezuela has also sparked concerns about the potential for further instability in the region, with some warning of a potential escalation of tensions between the US and other countries.
In a statement, US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, said that the operation was a success, and that Maduro and his wife would be brought to justice. “This operation was a testament to the bravery and skill of our military and intelligence personnel,” Pompeo said. “We will continue to work to bring those responsible for human rights abuses and corruption to justice.”
The capture of Maduro has also sparked a range of reactions from world leaders, with some welcoming the move, while others have condemned it as a violation of international law. The situation is still unfolding, and it remains to be seen what the consequences will be for Maduro and his regime.
