The Donroe doctrine: How Trump’s Venezuela strike redefines US policy

On 3 January 2026, US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a high-risk operation led by Delta Force, backed by over 150 aircraft, drones, and helicopters. Part of “Operation Absolute Resolve,” the mission showcased airpower as the decisive factor in modern conflicts, combining intelligence, special forces, and electronic warfare to secure operational dominance. Maduro was flown to the US for trial. The raid highlighted rapid military intervention, the strategic role of air superiority, and the US military’s ability to project power abroad, while raising questions about international law, geopolitical impact, and regional stability.