Washington: President Donald Trump praised the US military's recent operation in Venezuela, describing it as a complex mission that showcased American military superiority. Speaking to the House Republican Conference at the Kennedy Center, Trump emphasized the scale of the operation, which involved 152 airplanes and significant "boots on the ground," while asserting that no US forces were killed, unlike the opposing side.
According to Anadolu Agency - English, Trump revealed that the operation involved cutting off electricity across almost all of Venezuela, leaving only those with candles in the dark. He highlighted the unmatched quality of American weapons, asserting that no other nation could execute such a mission. Trump further expressed dissatisfaction with the current pace of weapons production, promising to expedite the process and pressuring defense companies to increase output.
Trump also addressed the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during the operation, noting the long-standing efforts to apprehend him. He accused Maduro of violence and mass killings, referencing a "torture chamber" in Caracas. Additionally, Trump mentioned Maduro's attempt to mimic his dance moves, while reiterating the Venezuelan leader's violent reputation.
The operation, named Operation Absolute Resolve, was executed on Saturday, resulting in Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being taken into US custody. The mission included extensive airstrikes targeting northern Venezuela's air defense and communication systems, coupled with special operations in Caracas to capture the couple. The Trump administration has linked the operation to the Monroe Doctrine, counter-narcotics efforts, and securing influence over Venezuela's oil reserves.