The operation, codenamed “Maduro Out,” began last summer, after Donald Trump authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. The US intelligence services monitored the movements of Nicolás Maduro, his protection network and the regime’s political base, using classic infiltration and technology such as drones. At the same time, Washington sought contacts within the Venezuelan state and military apparatus to facilitate the intervention. At the same time, Secretary of State Marco Rubio held secret negotiations with Maduro, offering him a “way out” several times, the details of which were not made public.
After negotiations failed, the Trump administration's political team, together with US military leaders, finalized the plan for the incursion. Trump approved the operation four days after Christmas, but the launch was postponed due to weather conditions. The X-hour was marked on the night of January 2, when more than 150 aircraft took off from various US bases and aircraft carriers. The deployment included F-35 fighter jets, B-1 bombers, drones and Delta Force special forces.
The airstrikes hit several strategic targets around Caracas, including the port of La Guaira, airports and military bases, with the aim of neutralizing air defenses. After that, Apache helicopters transported Delta Force units to the Fuerte Tiuna military complex, where Maduro was located. Special forces cut off electricity, penetrated the perimeter and entered the building in the early hours of the morning. According to Trump, the clashes were heavy, but the US stated that there were no losses in its ranks.
Within 46 seconds of entering the room where the presidential couple was, Maduro was neutralized and handcuffed. FBI agents informed him of the arrest warrant issued by New York prosecutors, emphasizing that this was a matter of law enforcement and not an act of war. Maduro and his wife were taken out by helicopter and taken to a US aircraft carrier offshore. Shortly afterwards, Trump released an image of the arrested Maduro, presenting the operation as a demonstration of American power and determination.