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Introduction
The latest episode of Verdict with Ted Cruz, hosted by Senator Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson, unpacks one of the most extraordinary events in modern American foreign policy: the flawless U.S. military operation to capture Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. This mission, known as Operation Absolute Resolve, was a stunning display of American strength and strategic precision, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Western Hemisphere.
The Operation: Precision and Power on Display
On January 3rd, under President Trump’s direct order, U.S. forces executed a daring extraction deep inside Caracas—a city of five million and a heavily fortified military stronghold. The mission involved over 150 aircraft, including F-22s, F-35s, B-1 bombers, and advanced drones, all working in perfect synchronization. Despite the risks, the operation was carried out without a single American casualty, proving once again that no military on earth rivals the United States.
Why Venezuela Matters
Venezuela holds the largest proven oil reserves in the world, surpassing even Saudi Arabia. Once ranked fourth globally in GDP per capita, the country collapsed under decades of socialist and communist rule. Today, it is a failed state and a hub for narco-terrorism, funneling tons of cocaine into the U.S. Maduro’s regime has partnered with America’s adversaries—Russia, China, Iran, and Hezbollah—creating a direct national security threat just 2,000 miles from U.S. shores.
The Legal Authority Behind Trump’s Decision
Critics claim the operation was illegal, but constitutional and historical precedent says otherwise. Under Article II, the President has inherent authority as Commander-in-Chief to protect Americans and respond to imminent threats. Maduro was indicted in New York for drug trafficking and terrorism-related charges, giving the U.S. clear legal grounds for his arrest.
Key legal foundations include:
- Article II Authority
- Ker-Frisbie Doctrine (Supreme Court precedent)
- Noriega Precedent (1990)
- Binding DOJ opinion affirming extraterritorial arrests
Geopolitical Ripple Effect
Maduro’s arrest is a geopolitical earthquake. Venezuela has long propped up Cuba’s communist regime through oil shipments, while Cuba supplied Maduro with military enforcers. With Maduro gone, Cuba’s survival is in jeopardy. This move reasserts the Monroe Doctrine—or as Cruz calls it, the “Donroe Doctrine”—signaling that America will defend its hemisphere from hostile powers.
What Happens Next? Risks and Opportunities
The administration must avoid prolonged occupation while ensuring stability and democratic elections in Venezuela. A democratic Venezuela could transform Latin America, weaken adversaries, and bolster U.S. security. But mishandling the aftermath could lead to chaos, empowering cartels and foreign powers.
The Broader Lesson: Communism Always Fails
Despite unparalleled natural resources, Venezuela collapsed under socialist rule. Poverty soared, millions fled, and the nation became a haven for criminals and terrorists. As Senator Cruz bluntly states, “Communism doesn’t work. It’s disastrously bad.”
Final Thoughts
The capture of Nicolás Maduro is a defining moment for U.S. foreign policy and a testament to American strength. It reinforces the principle that freedom and security require courage and clarity of purpose. As emphasized in this episode of Verdict, this operation was not just about one dictator—it was about defending America and reaffirming that tyranny has no safe haven in our hemisphere.