Trump Claims Use of Secret Weapon in Venezuelan Operation, Suggests Broader Military Actions Against Drug Cartels
In a recent interview, President Donald Trump revealed that the U.S. employed a purported secret weapon dubbed “The Discombobulator” during its operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. He also reiterated the possibility of extending military strikes against drug cartels beyond South America.
Why It Matters
Trump’s remarks underscore the evolving U.S. military strategy in both Venezuelan and drug cartel operations, raising questions about international engagement in Latin America. His statement also reveals the administration’s commitment to combatting drug trafficking, potentially expanding U.S. military involvement in neighboring regions.
Key Developments
- Trump referred to a secret weapon that disabled Venezuelan equipment, preventing missiles from being launched.
- The U.S. executed a military strike against a drug-trafficking vessel in the eastern Pacific, marking an escalation in operations since Maduro’s capture.
- Trump confirmed the seizure of oil from Venezuelan-connected tankers but declined to disclose their current location.
- The president also mentioned discussions related to an Arctic security deal with NATO, although its specifics remain uncertain.
- In unrelated remarks, Trump criticized the choice of performers for this year’s Super Bowl, indicating he will not attend the event.
Full Report
During an interview with the New York Post, Trump claimed that the U.S. effectively neutralized Maduro’s military capabilities with a weapon he referred to as “The Discombobulator.” According to Trump, this weapon rendered key Venezuelan equipment useless, preventing their rockets from being launched. He stated, “They were all set for us” but were unable to activate their systems.
The president has previously mentioned operational support, such as turning off power in Caracas during the raid, though he offered no details on how these objectives were achieved.
Trump indicated a broader military perspective, asserting that the U.S. plans to intensify its strikes against drug cartels and could extend these actions into Mexico and Central America. “We know their routes. We know everything about them,” Trump stated, emphasizing the U.S. readiness to target cartel operations directly.
On the topic of drug-related military actions, a recent strike targeted a vessel suspected of trafficking drugs, marking the first offensive following Maduro’s capture. The U.S. has conducted numerous operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific over recent weeks, resulting in numerous casualties among suspected traffickers.
Regarding the Venezuelan oil trade, Trump disclosed that seven seized oil tankers had been emptied, emphasizing the U.S. control over the crude oil linked to Maduro’s regime but withholding information on their whereabouts.
Additionally, during the interview, Trump spoke about the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, which she had presented to him. He noted that he was still undecided on where to display the accolade in the Oval Office.
In other matters, Trump discussed an Arctic security agreement with NATO’s Mark Rutte, claiming that it would ensure U.S. ownership of specific lands where bases are located. However, regional leaders have expressed that sovereignty remains a non-negotiable aspect of such discussions.
Lastly, Trump dismissed the upcoming Super Bowl, labeling it a “terrible choice” for performers and confirming he does not plan to attend the game.
Context & Previous Events
Trump has previously commented on the need for robust military action against drug cartels and has emphasized a strong stance against governments in Latin America that he perceives as threats. His administration’s recent events, including military engagements and strategic partnerships, further highlight the U.S. aim to combat drug trafficking and assert its influence in the region.
