One Decision In Brief: How Trump Captured Maduro
Jan 6, 2026
Join former UK Defence Secretary Sir Ben Wallace as he dives into the dramatic U.S. military raid in Venezuela that arrested President Nicolás Maduro. He analyzes the operation's flawless execution and the potential for Trump to replicate such tactics elsewhere. The conversation touches on geopolitical tensions with Cuba and Colombia, and why Greenland is becoming a flashpoint between the U.S. and Europe. Wallace critiques Europe's weak responses, urging a stronger position amidst rising challenges from Russia.
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Operation's Tactical Perfection
- The US raid that captured Nicolás Maduro was militarily near-perfect because of surprise, intelligence, and no American casualties.
- Ben Wallace stresses it succeeded partly because Venezuela lacked modern military capability and had internal betrayal.
Planning Versus Execution Timing
- Military plans for high-risk options often exist long before a final decision is made, giving politicians choices.
- Wallace says execution timing was short-term and depended on the right window and an insider betraying Maduro.
Success Encourages Further Moves
- Success breeds appetite for repetition; Trump may view Venezuela as a template for future actions.
- Wallace warns Cuba is most exposed due to political drivers and dependence on Venezuelan oil.