Sources & Methods Venezuela leader captured. Trump says U.S. to 'run' the country. Here’s what we know
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Jan 4, 2026 
In a riveting discussion, Greg Myre, NPR's national security correspondent, shares insights on the operation that led to Nicolás Maduro's arrest. Tom Bowman gives an inside look at military tactics and challenges in the field. Carrie Kahn reports on the emotional reactions from Venezuelans as they navigate uncertainty, while Rep. Adam Smith emphasizes the critical need for congressional oversight and the complexities of U.S. plans in Venezuela. The conversation dives into the legal and political ramifications of U.S. involvement, offering a nuanced perspective on the future of the country.
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Swift, Intelligence-Led Capture
- U.S. forces executed a rapid operation named Absolute Resolve that used airstrikes and special operations to capture Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
- Officials say extensive intelligence, including NSA intercepts and satellite imagery, enabled precise timing and surprise.
Pattern Of Life Enabled Precision
- U.S. planners ran a long "pattern of life" surveillance on Maduro using NSA, NGA and human sources to track his routines.
- They even built a mock-up of his home to rehearse the raid, a tactic used in past high-profile operations.
Legal Questions Loom Large
- Legal and constitutional questions quickly arose because Congress was not notified and Democrats called the action an illegal escalation.
- The Trump team framed it as law enforcement tied to a 2020 indictment, but removing a foreign leader raises broader legal issues.