On Saturday, Chairman Dan “Raijin” Cain of the Joint Chiefs of Staff provided a comprehensive account of the U.S. military operation that led to the arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife. He described it as a highly complex mission that involved meticulous coordination, global deployment, and resulted in no U.S. military casualties.
Speaking to the public following President Donald Trump’s comments about Maduro’s capture, Cain characterized Operation Absolute Resolve as “a bold operation that only the United States could carry out.”
“Last night, under the President’s direction and at the request of the Department of Justice, the U.S. military conducted an arrest mission in Caracas, Venezuela,” Cain stated. “We brought to trial the individuals indicted: Nicolás and Syria Maduro.”
The mission aimed to execute an indictment issued in the Southern District of New York, where charges against the Maduro couple included drug-terrorism conspiracy, conspiracy to import cocaine, and illegal possession of firearms.
Cain elaborated on the extensive planning and rehearsal that took months, stating it was “careful, precise, and executed in the early hours of January 2nd.” He emphasized that all branches of the military—Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines—worked closely with intelligence and law enforcement partners.
The operation was set in motion once specific weather conditions and intelligence signals aligned. “In early December, our military was put on standby while waiting for key events to unfold… From Christmas to New Year’s, our troops remained vigilant until we received the Presidential go-ahead,” Cain explained. The aim was to select a date that minimized civilian risk, surprised the targets, and ensured a safe capture.
Cain noted that the operation relied on detailed intelligence. “We utilized top-tier intelligence resources and years of anti-terrorism experience. We observed and prepared.” The mission was supported by the CIA, NSA, and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, which meticulously tracked Maduro’s daily habits, including what he ate and even the whereabouts of his pets.
Once the operation was approved, it unfolded rapidly. “At 10:46 p.m. ET, the President authorized the military to proceed. He wished us, ‘Good luck and God speed,’ which we appreciated,” Cain recalled.
Over 150 aircraft launched from more than 20 bases in the Western Hemisphere. “We had bombers, fighters, reconnaissance, and surveillance planes in the air—a diverse and ready team, with our youngest crew member being 20 and the oldest at 49,” Cain added.
Helicopters flew low, just 100 feet above water, supported by various military aircraft including F-22s, F-35s, and drones. As they neared Caracas, air forces took out Venezuelan air defenses to protect their troops.
Upon arrival at Maduro’s residence at 2:01 a.m. local time, troops faced gunfire and defended themselves. “One of our aircraft was attacked but managed to evade,” Cain admitted.
“This mission was meticulously planned, drawing on lessons learned from decades of military operations,” Cain noted. “Those operating in the air were ready to sacrifice for their comrades below.”
The initiative concluded without U.S. casualties or loss of equipment. Following the mission, loud explosions were reported across Caracas, particularly near Fuerte Tiuna, suspected to be Maduro’s bunker.
“This demonstrated the strength of America’s joint forces,” Cain stated, “Our role is to unify our military capabilities so we can unleash overwhelming force when necessary against any adversary globally.”
Cain finished his statement by honoring the mission participants, saying, “I’m immensely proud of our joint forces and thankful to represent them today. No mission is too challenging for these dedicated professionals and their supportive families—they make our country stronger.”
