ChinaPower Operation Absolute Resolve and China’s Takeaways: A Conversation with Ryan Berg and Evan Ellis
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Jan 15, 2026 
Ryan Berg, a director at CSIS focusing on U.S.-Latin America policy, and Evan Ellis, a research professor at the U.S. Army War College, delve into the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. They discuss China's surprised reaction and its mainly diplomatic response. Their analysis reveals U.S. military strategies, China's economic interests, and potential lessons for Taiwan's defense. The duo explores regional responses and predicts China's next moves in governance and infrastructure, underscoring the complexities of U.S.-China relations.
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Precision Joint Operation Demonstrated U.S. Reach
- The U.S. executed a complex, joint special-operations raid to capture Nicolás Maduro with surprise and minimal footprint.
- Ryan Berg argues this demonstrated unique U.S. capability and sent a clear message regionally and to China.
China Taken By Surprise
- China was reportedly surprised by the operation and had no evident advanced warning.
- Evan Ellis notes China had provided diplomatic support but little military or intelligence help to Maduro beforehand.
Oil Sector Central To Venezuela Recovery
- The U.S. plans a three-phase approach: stabilization, recovery of civil society, then transition to elections.
- Ryan Berg stresses oil-sector recovery is central since Venezuela's economy depends on revitalizing PDVSA.