A Narrow Escape: U. S. Troops Face Peril in Venezuela Mission

In a daring operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, U.S. forces encountered significant risks and close calls. The mission, dubbed Absolute Resolve, involved over 150 aircraft launched from 20 different bases in the region.

The operation was not as smooth as President Trump's description of it being "perfectly executed."

The Mission Unfolds

The U.S. Army helicopters flew low over the sea and then over Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. They were undetected initially, thanks to:

• A cyberattack that caused a blackout in the city.
• Radar-evading fighter jets that disabled Venezuela's air defenses.

However, as they neared Maduro's heavily guarded compound, the helicopters came under fire.

Critical Moments

• The lead helicopter, an MH-47 Chinook, was hit but managed to stay in the air.
• The pilot, who also planned the mission, was injured three times in the leg.
• The success of the entire operation was at stake as the damaged helicopter struggled to deliver its troops to the target.

President Trump's Stance

President Trump has shown increased confidence in using military force to achieve foreign policy goals during his second term. When asked about potential resistance from Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, Trump hinted at the possibility of another raid.

Aftermath and Implications

The operation highlights:

• The complexities and dangers of high-stakes military missions.
• Questions about the effectiveness and consequences of such interventions in achieving long-term political objectives.