1. Visit with U.S. Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid
- Senator Ted Cruz visits three U.S. soldiers wounded during a raid intended to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
- All soldiers are recovering in stable condition and none suffered life‑threatening injuries.
- One soldier helped plan and lead the raid and continued fighting after being shot.
- Two soldiers requested keepsakes from their injuries (a bullet and shrapnel), which Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved as a morale gesture.
- Emphasis on:
- Heroism and discipline of U.S. forces
- No American fatalities despite being outnumbered
- Significant Cuban forces defending Maduro were reportedly killed
2. Symbolism and Morale
- Soldiers and their families (wives present) showed strong morale and faith.
- Soldiers expressed eagerness to return to duty.
- A former commanding officer expressed regret at missing the mission, reinforcing camaraderie and pride.
3. Meeting with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado
- Cruz met with Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader now living in exile in the United States.
- Machado:
- Previously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
- Met with President Donald Trump at the White House
- Symbolically presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize as gratitude for U.S. support
4. Political Situation in Venezuela
- Widespread celebration in Venezuela following Maduro’s removal.
- Some political prisoners released, though still monitored.
- Current acting leadership (Delcy Rodríguez) is described as illegitimate and a continuation of the Maduro regime.
- Machado strongly advocates for:
- Free and fair elections
- A swift election timeline (Cruz suggests within six months)
5. Bipartisan Senate Meeting
- Machado met with about a dozen U.S. senators, including Republicans and Democrats.
- Cruz praises her decision to pursue bipartisan unity instead of partisan attacks.
- Unity from the U.S. is portrayed as critical for Venezuela’s democratic transition.
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