After an overnight raid that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, Army Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a speech lauding the operation. He commended the bravery of the U.S. military and underscored President Donald Trump’s strong leadership.
On the morning of January 3, following President Trump’s comments, Army Secretary Pete Hegseth made a passionate address to the nation regarding what he termed a historic military and law enforcement effort.
“Finally, we have a commander in chief who is respected globally and represents what the American people deserve,” Hegseth started. He described the raid as “a colossal joint military and law enforcement operation, flawlessly executed by some of the finest Americans.” He continued, “America’s warriors are unparalleled,” emphasizing the bravery and expertise that characterized the mission. “What we saw last night was the raw determination, courage, and honor of the American soldier.”
Hegseth acknowledged the mission’s leadership and stated, “I salute Chairman Dan ‘Rigin’ Cain and all those who stood vigilant last night.” He suggested that the operation showcased American resolve and capability. “No other nation on this planet, and no other head of state, has shown such leadership, bravery, and commitment.” He claimed that this was an unprecedented combination of strengths.
The raid is said to be part of a larger initiative aimed at breaking down leadership within the Cartel de los Soles, a multinational drug trafficking organization led by Maduro and other Venezuelan officials. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that both Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are indicted in New York on charges related to narco-terrorism conspiracy, importing cocaine, and possession of destructive devices. Bondi announced that Maduro would “soon face justice in an American court.”
The precision strike targeted two significant military sites in Venezuela, including Fuerte Tiuna, widely believed to be Maduro’s personal refuge, and La Carlota Air Base in Caracas. The U.S. military completed its mission without sustaining casualties or losing equipment. President Trump later acknowledged that Maduro had been detained during Operation Absolute Resolve and taken to Iwo Jima.
During his remarks, Hegseth pointed out the mission’s role as a deterrent. “Our opponents are always alert. America can assert its will at any time, anywhere. This operation demonstrated coordination, stealth, precision, and the extensive reach of American justice,” he stated.
Maduro’s arrest arrives eight years after Venezuela’s parliament declared him an illegitimate leader, amid a backdrop of fraudulent elections, human rights violations, and drug trafficking that spanned over a decade. Initially indicted in 2020, Maduro is accused of misusing state resources to facilitate drug shipments to the U.S., with the Cartel de los Soles being central to these operations. The government offered a $50 million reward for information leading to his capture.
In a brief phone interview right after President Trump announced the raid, Hegseth described the operation as “fantastic,” crediting it to thorough planning and the skill of U.S. personnel. “We will continue to govern until we achieve a secure, appropriate, and sensible transition of power,” he added in a subsequent press conference at Mar-a-Lago.
Hegseth reinforced this strategic outlook, stating, “This is about the safety and prosperity of the American populace. This is America First. This is peace through strength. The U.S. Army is proud to contribute.” He welcomed viewers to the era of President Trump in 2026.
“Nicolas Maduro had an opportunity, just as Iran did, until he didn’t. He underestimated President Trump’s commitment to stopping gang violence and drug influx into our country,” Hegseth remarked, reaffirming the administration’s determination. “We are profoundly serious about halting the flow of drugs and poisons to our citizens. We are resolute about reclaiming stolen oil and re-establishing U.S. deterrence and control in the Western Hemisphere.”
