UPDATE: A U.S. helicopter involved in the daring raid to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was struck during the operation but managed to remain airborne, ensuring the safety of U.S. troops. This urgent report from The New York Times reveals that the twin-rotor MH-47 Chinook sustained multiple hits, yet successfully returned to the USS Iwo Jima off the coast of Venezuela.
The flight leader, responsible for planning and piloting the mission, was injured three times in the leg but still managed to oversee the operation. After the raid, he was airlifted to a Texas hospital for treatment, where he is currently recovering alongside another injured soldier. Five additional commandos were treated for injuries but have since returned to duty.
In a dramatic turn, over 80 commandos stormed Maduro’s compound, engaging in a fierce firefight with his security detail. The operation culminated in the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, as they attempted to escape into a fortified room. Fresh helicopters quickly extracted the commandos and their captives while avoiding hostile fire.
The fallout from the operation has been severe. President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday, “We had a lot of boots on the ground, but it was amazing. And think of it, nobody was killed.” He noted that the opposing side suffered significant losses, with reports indicating at least 32 Cuban soldiers killed during the U.S. strikes, as confirmed by the Cuban government. They labeled the operation a “criminal act of aggression,” asserting their forces fought valiantly.
A senior Venezuelan official, speaking anonymously, claimed the total death toll could reach 80, comprising military personnel, civilians, and a large part of Maduro’s security team. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello later increased this figure to around 100 casualties.
This mission marks a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in Venezuela, raising urgent questions about international relations and military engagement strategies. As the situation continues to develop, officials are expected to provide more details on the operation and its aftermath.
Stay tuned for further updates as more information emerges regarding the implications of this operation and the ongoing situation in Venezuela.
