Washington, Jan 7 (NationPress) President Donald Trump characterized the US military operation resulting in the apprehension of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro as a remarkably intricate and tactically adept mission, lauding American forces for their “brilliant” execution in perilous circumstances.

While addressing the House GOP Members' Retreat, Trump stated that the operation entailed considerable risks, including intense gunfire aimed at US helicopters during the troop deployment. He noted that American forces faced exposure during the assault but achieved their objective without any US casualties.

“It was an incredible military accomplishment,” Trump remarked, labeling the mission “brilliant tactically” and “an extraordinary feat.” He emphasized that the operation required extensive coordination and an element of surprise, asserting that US forces had “a lot of boots on the ground.”

Trump indicated that Maduro’s capture represented a pivotal moment following years of US dissatisfaction with Venezuela’s governance. He accused Maduro of presiding over widespread violence and oppression, claiming that millions had endured suffering under his regime.

“He’s a violent individual,” Trump asserted. “He’s killed millions of people.”

The president noted that the scale and speed of the operation caught Venezuelan forces off guard, mentioning that power was disrupted during the assault, leaving Caracas without electricity. He explained that this disruption contributed to the tactical surprise.

“There was no electricity,” Trump stated, mentioning that only a few individuals had light, primarily from candles.

Trump framed the raid as part of a broader initiative to tackle what he called narco-terror states within the Western Hemisphere. He pointed out that Venezuela had emerged as a hub for drugs, crime, and instability affecting the United States.

“It’s not just Venezuela,” Trump noted. “It’s what’s emanating from Venezuela.”

He asserted that US actions had significantly decreased maritime drug trafficking associated with the nation. “Drugs by sea are down 97 percent,” Trump reported, stating that enforcement efforts would now extend to land routes.

Trump dismissed claims that the operation was primarily motivated by oil or a desire for regime change. Instead, he framed it as a crucial security measure aligned with longstanding US policy.

“It’s our hemisphere,” Trump declared, referring to the Monroe Doctrine. “Previous presidents lost sight of this. I have not.”

He claimed that the operation showcased US military superiority. “No one possesses our weaponry,” Trump emphasized. “No one has the caliber of our arms.”

Trump described the Venezuela operation as one of the most significant strategic maneuvers undertaken by the United States in years, asserting it sent a definitive message to adversaries and altered the power dynamics in the region.