Operation Absolute Resolve Stuns Nation
The United States executed a swift military operation on January 3, 2026. This action targeted Venezuela. It resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. His wife, Cilia Flores, was also apprehended. The operation, codenamed “Absolute Resolve,” involved extensive airstrikes. These strikes hit targets across northern Venezuela. They included areas around the capital city, Caracas. Over 150 aircraft participated. U.S. forces, including Delta Force, carried out the raid. Intelligence agencies like the CIA played a key role. The mission aimed to disable Venezuelan air defenses. It also sought to neutralize President Maduro. The operation concluded quickly. Maduro and Flores were taken to a U.S. warship. They are now en route to New York. There, they will face federal charges.
Maduro Indicted on Narco-Terrorism Charges
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced new indictments. These charges supersede a 2020 indictment. Maduro and Flores face charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy. They are also accused of cocaine importation conspiracy. Additional charges include possession of machine guns. The U.S. Department of Justice alleges a 25-year conspiracy. This plot involved distributing cocaine. It aided regional drug and terrorist groups. Groups like the Sinaloa Cartel and Tren de Aragua are named. Prosecutors state Maduro directed Venezuelan resources. These resources protected cocaine shipments. They facilitated trafficking operations. Maduro denies involvement in the drug trade. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment. He is reportedly held at a Brooklyn detention center.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott Applauds Action
Texas Governor Greg Abbott strongly supported the operation. He called Maduro an “indicted narco-terrorist.” Abbott cited Maduro’s drug trafficking. He stated it cost many American lives. Abbott also highlighted Maduro’s release of gang members. These members terrorized U.S. communities. They killed Texans. Abbott believes Texas and the world are safer. His statement praised President Trump’s leadership. He also thanked U.S. servicemembers. This news reflects a tough stance. It aligns with previous efforts against Maduro.
Democratic Representatives Voice Strong Criticism
However, Texas Democrats expressed serious concerns. Rep. Jasmine Crockett criticized the action. She stated President Trump lacks authority. He cannot depose foreign leaders without Congress. Crockett deemed the move “unconstitutional.” She called it a distraction. People face domestic issues like inflation. Millions are losing healthcare. This intervention diverts focus. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher echoed these concerns. She worried about the precedent. It impacts national sovereignty. Fletcher stressed Congress’s sole authority. War declaration requires congressional approval. She called for transparency and accountability. Other Democrats, like Rep. Joaquin Castro and Rep. Greg Casar, echoed these sentiments. They questioned the constitutionality. They also raised concerns about cost.
Background: Years of Tension and Pressure
The capture of Maduro did not occur in a vacuum. U.S.-Venezuela relations have been strained for years. The Trump administration had increased pressure. This included naval and aerial operations. Sanctions and diplomatic isolation were also employed. The U.S. previously indicted Maduro in 2020. This was for narco-terrorism. The recent operation followed months of intelligence gathering. It also involved escalating military presence. The U.S. deployed an aircraft carrier. This buildup signaled intent. The operation mirrored past U.S. actions. It resembled the 1990 capture of Manuel Noriega. This historical parallel highlights U.S. resolve.
A Divided Political Landscape in Texas
Texas lawmakers showed a clear division. Republicans largely supported the strike. They viewed Maduro as illegitimate. They saw the action as necessary. Senator John Cornyn praised Trump. He detailed Maduro’s alleged criminal ties. Senator Ted Cruz also voiced support. He emphasized the threat Maduro posed. Rep. Dan Crenshaw shared personal ties. He lived in Venezuela previously. He described its decline.
Democrats, however, voiced strong objections. They focused on constitutional law. They questioned presidential authority. Rep. Colin Allred stated this was wrong. He cited acting without authorization. Rep. Jasmine Crockett called it “reckless.” Rep. Lizzie Fletcher highlighted sovereignty risks. Rep. Greg Casar demanded a War Powers Resolution vote. These reactions highlight Texas’s political diversity. They show differing views on foreign policy.
Implications and Future Uncertainty
The operation’s implications are vast. It represents a significant shift. It signals renewed U.S. assertiveness. President Trump stated the U.S. would “run the country.” This plan is until a transition occurs. This raises questions about U.S. commitment. It also poses geopolitical risks. Some critics cite potential overreach. The impact on regional stability is uncertain. Venezuela’s future governance remains unclear. The country faces significant challenges. It includes restoring democracy and economy. The U.S. involvement now carries weight. The situation will evolve rapidly. This news remains a trending topic. Its long-term effects are yet to unfold.
