Retired Admiral Supports U.S. Action in Venezuela
Retired Navy Admiral James Stavridis, who previously served as NATO’s supreme allied commander, commended the recent operation by the Trump administration that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
During a discussion on CNN’s “Smerkonish,” host Michael Smerkonish inquired about the responses from Iran, Russia, and China regarding the operation, which Stavridis referred to as “unusual.” He mentioned, “As anticipated, all three will publicly condemn this type of action. However, privately, they may be quite impressed with the military capabilities showcased here.” He expressed doubt that any of these countries could have successfully executed such an operation, highlighting the challenges involved in locating, securing, and extracting Maduro without American casualties. “This was an unprecedented military operation,” he stated.
Stavridis elaborated, suggesting that while public disapproval from these nations is expected, there might be a quiet acknowledgment of the U.S. military’s effectiveness. “It’s interesting to think about how this perception will resonate in Beijing, Moscow, and Tehran,” he remarked.
In response, Russia’s Foreign Ministry described Trump’s actions as an “act of armed aggression.”
On Saturday, President Trump asserted that the U.S. would assume control in Venezuela until a “wise transition of power” could be established. “We intend to manage the country until we can ensure a safe and appropriate transition,” he said, emphasizing a cautious approach to avoid external interference that has characterized past attempts.
“We wish peace, freedom, and justice for the great people of Venezuela, including those who have Venezuelan roots living in the U.S. and longing to return,” he added. “This is their homeland.” Trump also pledged to work on revamping Venezuela’s oil industry to help restore its economy.
Additionally, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in New York on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to CBS News, U.S. Army Delta Force was involved in the operation, which represents an escalation in U.S. military engagement in the area, following earlier actions such as deploying naval warships, seizing oil tankers, and targeting numerous vessels suspected of drug trafficking.
Trump briefly addressed the media, revealing an attack on a “large facility” in Venezuela. Earlier reports indicated that he was referring to narcotics-related locations. He had issued warnings about Maduro’s reluctance to cooperate with the U.S. during an interview.
