BREAKING: In a dramatic military operation early on October 7, 2023, the United States launched a rapid strike in Caracas, Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. This unexpected move has sparked intense debate over the lack of congressional notification and raised questions about the legality of the operation.
Explosions erupted across the Venezuelan capital as American forces targeted military installations. Witnesses reported hearing at least seven blasts within a span of 30 minutes, with smoke billowing from a military hangar. The operation, dubbed “Operation Absolute Resolve,” is said to be aimed at addressing charges of narco-terrorism against Maduro and Flores.
President Donald Trump confirmed their capture via social media, stating, “Maduro has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the country.” This announcement has ignited a firestorm of criticism from Democratic leaders who argue that the administration bypassed the necessary congressional approval for military action.
During a press conference, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth defended the decision, citing concerns over potential leaks: “This is not the kind of mission you can pre-notify,” he said. Trump echoed this sentiment, emphasizing, “Congress has a tendency to leak. This would NOT be good.”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the move as “reckless,” stating that he was assured multiple times that the administration was not pursuing military action in Venezuela. Representative Gregory Meeks, the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, expressed frustration, noting he learned of the operation through media reports, saying, “I received all information from the news media at this point.”
Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey condemned the lack of communication, stating, “Trump rejected our Constitutionally required approval process for armed conflict because the Administration knows the American people overwhelmingly reject risks pulling our nation into another war.”
The ramifications of this operation are substantial, not only for U.S.-Venezuela relations but also for domestic politics. As tensions rise, critics are questioning whether Trump’s administration is setting a dangerous precedent by circumventing congressional oversight.
As this situation develops, all eyes will be on how Congress responds and what implications this military action will have for future U.S. engagements abroad. The urgency of this operation and its aftermath continues to unfold, leaving many wondering about the next steps in U.S. foreign policy.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
