The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown Major Escalation
Dec 30, 2025
Kevin Liptak, a CNN senior White House reporter, shares insights on the US's historic drone strike in Venezuela, highlighting the administration's secrecy and President Trump's comments. Thomas L. Friedman, a New York Times columnist, discusses the complicated dynamics of US diplomacy in the Middle East, especially regarding Israel and Gaza. They also delve into advanced technology for searching for MH370, emphasizing the role of AI in refining search areas. Additionally, a brutal winter storm disrupts major highways across the US.
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First Known U.S. Strike Inside Venezuela
- CNN reports the CIA carried out a covert drone strike inside Venezuela targeting a port used for drug shipments.
- Sources say the facility was vacant and the strike was largely symbolic amid a broader pressure campaign on Maduro.
Public Slip Risks Covert Sources
- The White House remained tight-lipped after President Trump alluded to the strike in a radio interview.
- Public disclosure by the president risks exposing classified sources and methods, officials warn.
Covert Expansion Raises Legal Questions
- Expanding CIA authorities signals a shift from overt to covert measures in Venezuela.
- Experts note legal and oversight questions about Title 50 operations versus Title 10 military actions.
