U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has shed light on why American forces did not apprehend Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López or Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello during the operation that led to the arrest of Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Despite being key figures in the power structure of the Chavista regime, they remain at large.
The explanation came during an interview with CBS in Miami, where a journalist questioned why, if Washington aims to dismantle a narcoterrorist regime, two high-ranking officials, both wanted by U.S. justice and with bounties on their heads, were left free.
Rubio argued that the question was based on a flawed premise, defending the decision as a matter of strict operational strategy.
The secretary pointed out that capturing Maduro was already one of the most intricate and risky missions undertaken by the United States in recent years. He highlighted that the former leader resided in the country’s largest military base, requiring helicopters to land for a swift incursion, arresting the target, and exiting the territory without any American casualties, all within minutes.
The Complexity of Simultaneous Operations
Rubio dismissed as "absurd" the notion of conducting simultaneous arrests across multiple locations, suggesting that such an approach would have extended the operation over several days, significantly heightened military risks, and potentially prompted an even greater international backlash.
"Are you going to capture five people at the same time?" Rubio asked rhetorically, emphasizing that Maduro was the top priority as he was the figurehead claiming to be Venezuela's president.
Continued Pursuit
The official emphasized that the decision not to capture Padrino López and Cabello does not mean they are no longer targets. On the contrary, he stressed that the primary objective was to neutralize the chief symbol of illegitimate power in Venezuela and to carry out a mission he described as "bold, sophisticated, and extremely complicated."
Rubio's remarks come amid a shifting political landscape in Venezuela following Maduro's arrest, as Washington reassesses its relations with the new authorities in control.
The Secretary of State reaffirmed that the U.S. will persist in its efforts to safeguard national interests, combat drug trafficking, and curb the influence of actors like Iran and Cuba in the South American nation.
Future Diplomatic Relations
While Rubio refrained from divulging details about ongoing diplomatic negotiations, he emphasized that any future interlocutor will be judged by their actions rather than public promises. He also warned that without real changes, Washington would continue to apply various pressures, including restrictions in the oil sector.
Key Questions About U.S. Operations in Venezuela
Why were Vladimir Padrino López and Diosdado Cabello not captured?
Marco Rubio explained that the operation's complexity and risk levels made capturing multiple figures simultaneously unfeasible. The focus was on apprehending Nicolás Maduro, the highest priority target.
How did the U.S. execute the operation to capture Nicolás Maduro?
The operation involved a swift helicopter landing at the largest military base in Venezuela, allowing U.S. forces to conduct a quick incursion, capture Maduro, and exit the territory without American casualties, all within a few minutes.
Will the U.S. continue to pursue Padrino López and Cabello?
Yes, the U.S. still considers them targets and will continue efforts to capture them, as they remain key figures within the Chavista power structure.