US Pilots Injured in High Risk Raid
President Donald Trump said three American helicopter pilots suffered leg wounds during the mission that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. He spoke at Fort Bragg and described the landing as dangerous and intense.
As the aircraft touched down, machine gun fire struck the helicopter at close range. Enemy gunfire hit the pilots in the legs during the exchange. Snipers positioned nearby responded within seconds and eliminated the threat.
Nearly 200 US troops carried out Operation Absolute Resolve. Officials confirmed that seven American service members suffered injuries. Venezuela’s defense ministry reported 83 deaths on its side, including security forces and 32 Cuban personnel.
Praise for Special Forces
Trump praised the special operators who led the assault. He described them as disciplined and fully committed to the mission. In his remarks, he said the raid proved the strength and readiness of the US military.
During the speech, he mentioned a device he called the “discombobulator.” According to Trump, the technology disrupted Venezuelan communications systems. He claimed Russian and Chinese supplied equipment failed once US forces launched the assault. As a result, opposing forces struggled to respond.
Political Remarks During Visit
While meeting with military families, Trump also spoke about politics. He praised Michael Whatley, who is running for Senate in North Carolina.
He warned that Democrats could reduce military funding if they regain control in future elections. The president also referred to the base renaming under former President Joe Biden. Biden changed the name to Fort Liberty before officials restored Fort Bragg.
Leadership Shift in Venezuela
Following Maduro’s capture, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assumed leadership in Venezuela. She denied all allegations against Maduro and rejected the charges. US officials say they plan to maintain influence during the transition period.
Soon after the operation, American officials signed a major energy agreement with Venezuela’s interim leadership. The United States now markets Venezuelan crude oil. US authorities control the revenue and decide how to distribute it.
Broader Military Context
Fort Bragg serves as one of the largest hubs for US special operations forces. Units stationed there stand ready for deployment if diplomatic efforts collapse in other regions, including tensions involving Iran.
At the same time, the US Navy deployed a second aircraft carrier, the USS Ford, to the Middle East. Trump continues to describe the Maduro capture as a spectacular and decisive mission. He credits the special forces for carrying out the operation with speed and precision
