In a recent interview with Fox News, former President Donald Trump disclosed that he watched a "real-time" military operation unfold in Venezuela, describing it as "extremely complex."
Trump elaborated that the operation involved numerous aircraft, helicopters, and fighter jets, emphasizing the team's ability to penetrate "impenetrable" areas with "steel doors," which, according to him, were neutralized "within seconds."
He recounted monitoring the operation from Mar-a-Lago, "surrounded by generals and experts," with communications stretching between Florida and the Venezuelan terrain. The operation had been delayed several days due to weather conditions.
"The operation was initially planned four days ago, but the weather was not ideal. We waited for the perfect moment," Trump explained.
In the same conversation, Trump claimed that Nicolás Maduro was in a "fortress" and attempted to seek refuge but was "captured in seconds."
Trump's Perspective on the Operation's Impact
He assured that there were no fatalities among the involved forces: "We didn't lose anyone. Some were injured, but there were no deaths. All aircraft returned safely."
Trump described the operation as unparalleled in his experience, stating, "I've overseen many significant operations globally, but nothing like this." He compared it to another mission he referred to as "the elimination of the Iranian nuclear threat," emphasizing that the Venezuelan operation was "even more complex" in various aspects.
When asked about potential risks of escalation, the former president defended the action by asserting that "weakness creates chaos," presenting the operation as a message to "China, Iran, Russia."
He criticized President Joe Biden for "four years" of weakness and tolerance toward "narco-terrorism," also criticizing the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Trump's Vision for Venezuela and Beyond
During the interview, Trump mentioned that the message was not intentionally directed at Mexico, but claimed, "the cartels control Mexico." He referred to President Claudia Sheinbaum as "a good person," but alleged she "doesn't run the show" and "is afraid."
Trump claimed to have repeatedly offered help to "eliminate the cartels," stating the U.S. was losing "around 300,000 people annually" due to drugs entering "mainly through the southern border."
When questioned about what comes next for Venezuela, Trump said his team was "evaluating" the situation and expressed a desire for "freedom for the Venezuelan people" and "a good relationship with the United States," labeling Venezuela as a "brutal dictatorship."
He alleged that criminals, prisoners, and psychiatric patients were sent from Venezuela to the U.S., and stated Maduro "attempted to negotiate at the end," but he refused.
Trump's Response to Legislative Concerns and Future Plans
Regarding legislative authorization, Trump dismissed some Democrats who claimed he lacked Congress approval, labeling them as "weak and incompetent." He defended the operation as a "brilliant operation," asserting that they should be grateful for "saving lives and stopping drugs."
On energy matters, Trump asserted that the United States "will be heavily involved" in Venezuela's oil industry, boasting of having "the best oil companies in the world."
He added that, if necessary, they were prepared for "a second military wave," although it turned out to be unnecessary.
Finally, when asked about the whereabouts of Maduro and his wife, Trump claimed they were "heading to New York" due to charges there, describing a transport "by helicopter and then a ship."
He concluded the interview with a message of internal and border strength in the United States, asserting that the country would be "stronger than ever."
Key Insights into Trump's Venezuelan Operation
What did Trump reveal about the Venezuelan operation?
Trump disclosed that he observed a complex military operation in Venezuela in real-time, involving numerous aircraft and the ability to penetrate fortified areas.
How did Trump compare this operation to others?
Trump stated that this operation was the most complex he had overseen, even comparing it to the elimination of the Iranian nuclear threat.
What were Trump's views on the potential impact of the operation?
Trump defended the operation as a preventative measure against chaos, aiming to send a message to countries like China, Iran, and Russia.