President Trump arrived at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, today to recognize the extraordinary courage and dedication of U.S. special forces and their families. The visit centers around honoring those involved in the daring January operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores – a mission shrouded in secrecy and fraught with risk.
The operation, codenamed “Absolute Resolve,” involved nearly 200 American troops and resulted in seven injuries among the U.S. forces. However, the cost on the Venezuelan side was tragically high, with reports from their defense ministry indicating 83 fatalities, including Venezuelan security forces and 32 Cuban security personnel.
Following Maduro’s capture, his vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, assumed leadership, vehemently proclaiming the innocence of both Maduro and Flores. Despite her assertions, the United States maintains its position regarding the reasons for their capture and has signaled its intent to influence the interim government.
A significant energy pact was swiftly signed between the U.S. and Rodríguez’s government, unlocking access to Venezuelan crude oil. Proceeds from the oil sales are currently being managed by the U.S. government, earmarked for future disbursement as determined by American interests.
The President, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, is spending time with the families of those who participated in the operation, acknowledging the sacrifices made both on and off the battlefield. The base visit underscores the importance of Fort Bragg as a major hub for U.S. Army special operations.
Beyond Venezuela, Fort Bragg also houses units prepared for potential deployment to the Middle East. This comes at a time of heightened tensions, as diplomatic efforts with Iran remain delicate and the President has warned of potentially “traumatic” consequences should an agreement not be reached.
The deployment of a second U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS Ford, to the region further emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence. The Pentagon has remained tight-lipped regarding the specific units involved in the Venezuelan operation, adding to the air of mystery.
Trump has repeatedly described the Maduro capture as a “spectacular” demonstration of American power and resolve, praising the special operators as “unbelievable talented patriotic people.” He emphasized their unwavering dedication and their eagerness to execute the mission.
Adding to the intrigue, the President has alluded to a classified technology employed during the operation, playfully referring to it as the “discombobulator.” He described its effect as rendering all Venezuelan communications and equipment inoperable, effectively disorienting their personnel.
“I’m not allowed to talk about it,” Trump stated, “But let me just tell you, you know what it does? None of their equipment works, that’s what it does.” The implication is clear: a technological advantage played a crucial role in the success of Operation Absolute Resolve.
