US Briefs Congress After Operation Removes Venezuela's President
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WASHINGTON — U.S. officials briefed congressional leaders Monday after a military operation captured Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the operation and answered lawmakers’ questions during a classified session. Republicans defended the action as justified and aimed at stabilizing Venezuela, while Democrats sought more details on authority, goals and civilian impacts. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he expects elections and does not anticipate U.S. ground troops. Lawmakers sought casualty assessments. The Senate plans a war powers vote this week to limit further military action. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
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Timeline
- 1. Jan. 3, 2026 — U.S. operation in Caracas resulted in capture of Nicolás Maduro.
- 2. Jan. 4–5, 2026 — Airstrikes reportedly hit ports, infrastructure, and communications.
- 3. Jan. 5–6, 2026 — Secretary Rubio and Secretary Hegseth briefed congressional leaders in classified sessions.
- 4. Jan. 6, 2026 — House Speaker Mike Johnson called for prompt elections and denied expectation of ground troops.
- 5. This week (early Jan. 2026) — Senate prepares war powers vote to restrict further military action.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
