In a significant development, U.S. forces successfully captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro during a coordinated military operation in Caracas on January 3, 2026. President Donald Trump announced the mission, describing it as “extraordinary” and part of an effort to address ongoing security concerns related to Maduro’s regime, which has faced accusations of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
The operation followed extensive planning and involved over 150 aircraft deployed across the Western Hemisphere, providing crucial support for ground forces in Venezuela. No U.S. casualties were reported, and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth characterized the raid as “flawlessly executed.” Following Maduro’s removal, the U.S. will oversee Venezuela until a new leadership transition occurs, with reports indicating that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has assumed power and is in communication with U.S. officials.
Domestic and International Military Updates
As the U.S. Department of War concluded 2025, it highlighted various military initiatives, from specialized training programs to international joint exercises. At Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, firefighters completed a rigorous 10-day training course designed for both military and civilian personnel. The program focused on advanced search techniques, fire ground survival skills, and rapid intervention strategies tailored to the base’s complex operational environment.
With over 27,000 military and civilian personnel relying on the base’s emergency services, the training emphasized decision-making under pressure, communication, and accountability. Firefighters practiced navigating zero-visibility conditions, honing their skills in high-risk scenarios that could arise in their unique setting.
In Washington, guardsmen from multiple states have been conducting patrols since August as part of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force. This initiative aims to enhance public safety in high-traffic areas. Following an ambush incident that resulted in the death of Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and injuries to Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, the importance of maintaining security and vigilance has been underscored.
Enhancing Drone Capabilities and Joint Training Exercises
On December 31, 2025, the Marine Corps announced a new training program focused on expanding the use of small unmanned aerial systems, particularly for attack drones like the Neros Archer. The initiative includes six pilot courses and eight certifications, aiming to standardize training for operators, payload specialists, and instructors.
Lt. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, commanding general of Training and Education Command, expressed the importance of fast-tracking these courses while ensuring quality training and safety. The goal is to certify hundreds of Marines in drone operations by May 2026, equipping infantry, reconnaissance battalions, and littoral combat teams with advanced aerial capabilities.
Internationally, the 449th Air Expeditionary Group recently participated in Exercise Pale Serpent at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, testing readiness for real-world contingencies, including mass-casualty scenarios. The joint exercise, which included Army, Marine Corps, and Navy forces, underscored the importance of effective communication and rapid response in multi-service environments.
Overall, these updates from the Department of War illustrate a military force preparing for high-risk operations, enhancing technological capabilities, and addressing domestic security challenges. The successful capture of Maduro marks a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy and national security strategy, positioning the administration to take a more active role in the Western Hemisphere.
