Trump’s Venezuelan Leader Capture Celebrated as Tactical Triumph

By Alex Johnson | Saturday, 03 January 2026 05:01 PM EST

President Donald Trump’s decision to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro has been described by an influential group of analysts as a bold and decisive move that delivered a clear tactical victory. The operation, which involved extensive air support and Delta Force troops, is labeled an “unquestionable tactical success” by the group, noting that Maduro and his wife are being extradited to the United States to face narcotics and weapons charges with no American casualties.

The analysts framed Maduro’s removal as a strategic win against adversaries including China, Russia, Cuba, and Iran—nations that have historically supported his regime. They contrasted the operation with earlier sanctions relief under the administration of President Biden, warning that Maduro exploited such measures to maintain influence.

Additionally, the group endorsed Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado as the best path forward, cautioning that empowering figures tied to Maduro’s inner circle, including his handpicked vice president, could risk instability and prolonged foreign interference.

The report also raised concerns about legal and congressional oversight of the operation, urging scrutiny even as it celebrated Maduro’s downfall.

“The downfall of Maduro is good news,” the analysts stated, “but only if it leads to a stable democratic transition rather than chaos or another authoritarian outcome.”