Exclusive testimony sheds light on advanced weaponry, drones, and how the operation unfolded — fueling debate across Latin America.
January 10, 2026 — Caracas / Washington D.C. — An alleged firsthand account from a Venezuelan security guard loyal to President Nicolás Maduro has gone viral, describing a sudden and overwhelming military operation that left loyalist forces overwhelmed and stunned. The account — shared by U.S. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on social media — claims advanced technology and overwhelming firepower played a decisive role in the raid.
What the Guard Reported: Radar Failure, Drone Swarm, and Technological Shock
According to the translated testimony circulating online:
- The security guard said that on the day of the operation, radar systems abruptly stopped working, leaving defenders blind to incoming threats.
- Moments later, “a lot of drones” appeared over Venezuelan positions, causing confusion and panic.
- Soon after, approximately eight helicopters arrived, deploying an estimated 20 technologically advanced soldiers, according to the guard.
- The guard described the ensuing engagement as a “massacre”, saying Venezuelan forces — hundreds strong — had no chance against precision firepower and speed.
Although the original post does not include independent verification of these claims, similar descriptions have been widely shared across social media and news aggregation sites.
Claims of Mystery Sonic Weapon and Physical Effects
In extended versions of the testimony shared in some online forums, the guard alleged the attackers used a mysterious weapon that caused unusual physical symptoms among defenders, such as nosebleeds and vomiting. While these claims cannot be independently confirmed, they echo unverified reports in some international outlets about unknown directed-energy or sonic weapons being used during the operation.
No official U.S. government statement has confirmed the use of such a device.
Official Context: U.S. Operation to Capture Nicolás Maduro
U.S. sources and international reporting have described a major U.S. operation, code-named Operation Determination Absolute, that involved elite forces and was designed to capture President Nicolás Maduro. Officials say the mission was meticulously planned and executed with the latest tactical support, including helicopters and air assets.
The operation reportedly succeeded in capturing Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, on January 3, 2026, and they have since been transported to U.S. custody where Maduro now faces legal charges.
Wider Regional Reactions and Shifting Latin American Tone
News of the raid and the guard’s account has reverberated across the region:
- Several Latin American governments have publicly condemned the assault and expressed concern about sovereignty and military overreach.
- Other nations, however, emphasize caution and diplomatic resolution as political uncertainty grows. Observers say the narrative of U.S. military dominance — reinforced by chilling guard testimonies — could affect regional relations and defense postures in the months ahead.
The guard’s warning that other governments should “think twice before confronting the United States” has been widely shared and used politically by commentators on both sides of the spectrum.
Venezuela’s Domestic Response and Security Challenges
Inside Venezuela, the Maduro government has responded to the fallout by tightening internal security and deploying allied militias across major cities, arresting dissidents, and pushing a narrative of foreign aggression. Tensions remain high as armed patrols and checkpoints appear throughout Caracas.
At the same time, Venezuela’s interim leadership and opposition figures are navigating a volatile transition with international pressure mounting.