A U.S. government assessment has provided a grim update on the human cost of the military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, estimating approximately 75 people were killed during the raid. The dead reportedly include Venezuelan and Cuban security personnel as well as civilians caught in the crossfire, with the figure aligning with estimates from Venezuelan officials.
Operational Details & Casualties:
U.S. Casualties: Approximately half a dozen American troops were injured, some from gunshot wounds sustained in the firefight at Maduro's compound. Several were transported to a military medical center in Texas for surgery, with two still recovering.
Execution: The assault was led by Delta Force, supported by the 75th Ranger Regiment and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. Helicopters launched from warships off the coast, flying low to avoid detection but encountering ground fire upon approach, to which they responded with "overwhelming force in self-defense."
Official Statements: The Pentagon described the mission as "extremely complex and grueling" and highlighted the low number of U.S. injuries as a testament to operational expertise. Previously, President Trump had characterized the operation as "effective" but "very violent."
Geopolitical & Strategic Context:
Political Leverage: U.S. officials believe Venezuela will run out of money within weeks without cooperation, providing significant leverage in post-operation negotiations.
Path Forward: Senator Marco Rubio has expressed confidence in working with acting president Delcy Rodríguez. On the topic of elections, Trump has stated none will be held until the country is "fixed."
Broader Implications: The human toll and tactical details underscore the high-stakes, real-world consequences of geopolitical intervention. The operation, described by one official as "an astonishing feat" with "somewhat miraculous" zero U.S. fatalities, marks a significant escalation in direct U.S. military involvement in Venezuela.$BREV
