Sen. Ted Cruz Discusses Operation Targeting Venezuelan Dictator Maduro

On Wednesday, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) shared some striking new information regarding the covert mission on January 3 aimed at Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. He talked about a U.S. soldier who, after being shot, kept fighting and even requested to retain some of the bullets and shrapnel from his injuries.

In a recent podcast episode titled “Verdict with Ted Cruz,” he recounted a visit to a San Antonio hospital with fellow Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Army Secretary Pete Hegseth. They went to see three of the seven soldiers who were injured during Operation Absolute Resolve.

Cruz recounted how soldiers were significantly outnumbered and came under fire from Cuban forces stationed to guard Maduro. “It’s remarkable that not one American soldier lost their life, which speaks volumes about our military’s precision and effectiveness,” he remarked. “Many Cuban military personnel protecting Maduro died during that clash.”

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Cruz mentioned visiting a soldier who had been leading an “all-out assault” and was shot in the leg while overseeing a helicopter mission. “Even after being shot, he never backed down, playing a vital role in safeguarding his comrades,” Cruz said.

Diving into the personal interactions, Cruz shared how Hegseth offered to assist the soldiers in any way possible. “One soldier actually asked, ‘Can I keep the bullet that hit me?’” Cruz explained. “He was genuinely thrilled about getting it.”

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In another visit, a second soldier had suffered injuries from gunfire and shrapnel, showcasing similar desires. “He, too, wanted to keep the shrapnel piece,” Cruz noted, though the hospital staff had informed them that waivers were required for such items.

Remarkably, Hegseth reassured them that they could obtain the necessary exemptions. Cruz elaborated, “The soldier was beaming. It was as if he couldn’t wait to have a piece of his own history.”

Significance of Their Injuries

Cruz mentioned that both soldiers plan to either frame or keep their mementos as reminders of their service. Both earned their Purple Hearts through their valor, which, in Cruz’s view, contributes to a significant moment in history.

While the names and ages of the injured soldiers were not disclosed, Cruz described them as relatively young, suggesting that, aside from their physical presence, their true heroism might not be immediately noticeable to passersby.

Acknowledging the Soldiers’ Contributions

He expressed gratitude on behalf of his constituents, emphasizing, “What you did was incredibly important, and part of something momentous that changed the Western Hemisphere.” The exchange was light-hearted, as Cruz recalled the first soldier joking with Hegseth about wanting to go back into action soon.

Cruz’s office has yet to comment further on these events.