The U.S. operation to seize Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, dubbed "Operation Absolute Resolve," came after extensive "months of planning and rehearsals" and was supported by real-time aerial and ground intelligence. This was revealed by General Dan Caine, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, during a press briefing held at Mar-a-Lago alongside President Donald Trump.
During the briefing, it was highlighted that intelligence teams had spent considerable time gathering details about Maduro's movements, his pets, and even his clothing preferences. Although this specific detail was not quoted from an official source in the text, it underscores the depth of the investigation.
General Caine confirmed that one of the U.S. aircraft was hit during the mission but "remained airworthy" and continued its operation till the end. This aligns with Trump's assertion that "all" aircraft returned safely.
The general further elaborated that intelligence units provided "real-time updates" to ground troops, ensuring they navigated the complex environment "safely."
As U.S. forces exited the country, they faced resistance, resulting in "multiple self-defense engagements" during their withdrawal.
Caine also mentioned that U.S. forces will maintain a "high state of readiness" in the region, prepared to "project power" and "defend" U.S. interests.
President Trump described overseeing the operation "in real-time" from a room in Mar-a-Lago, surrounded by generals and experts. He characterized it as an "extremely complex" mission involving "dozens of planes," helicopters, and jets, along with the rapid neutralization of "steel doors" at sites deemed "impenetrable."
During the press conference, Trump noted that the operation was delayed four days due to weather conditions. He mentioned that Maduro was held in a "fortress" with "safe rooms" and was "captured in seconds."
Trump added that there were no fatalities among the participating forces, although there were "some injuries."
He shared that he and the First Lady were "headed to New York," transported by helicopter and then by ship.
In a related note, it's reported that Trump posted a photo of Maduro aboard the USS Iwo Jima. The President stated that Maduro was being brought to the U.S. to face charges.
Details on Operation Absolute Resolve
What was Operation Absolute Resolve?
Operation Absolute Resolve was a U.S. mission to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, involving extensive planning and real-time intelligence support.
How did the U.S. gather intelligence on Maduro?
U.S. intelligence teams meticulously gathered details about Maduro's movements, pets, and even his clothing choices to prepare for the operation.
Were there any casualties during the mission?
There were no fatalities reported among the forces involved, although some participants sustained injuries.