Let's talk about Trump's regime change operation.... - Belle of the Ranch

Well, howdy there Internet people. It's Belle again. So, today we're going to talk about Trump's regime change in Venezuela.

So, it appears the Trump administration without authorization from Congress started with strikes, then put boots on the ground in Venezuela and conducted a regime change operation that included the snatch of a foreign head of state and his wife. Our rumor mill says that Senate Armed Services wasn't even informed prior to the operation. That's quite the sentence.

Trump posted to social media, "The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been along with his wife captured and flown out of the country. This operation was done in conjunction with US law enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a news conference today at 11:00 a.m. at Mara Lago. Thank you for your attention to this matter. President Donald J. Trump.”

Venezuela's defense chief has vowed to fight any invasion and said, "We will form an indestructible wall of resistance. Our vocation is peace, but our heritage is the fight for freedom." Venezuela's vice president has demanded proof of life for Maduro and his wife.

A number of nations have expressed concern or condemnation over US actions. Some countries have already denied any involvement with the operation. The president of Colombia has called for an emergency session of the UN.

Back in October when the carrier was deployed, we pointed out that the Ford wasn't there for surveillance and that it was a country toppler and could target air defense and clear the way for other forces. We also pointed out the presence of the Night Stalkers in region and how they might be used to fly in SEALs or Delta to snatch Maduro himself. From what we've been able to figure out so far, there were multiple conventional strikes in and around the capital to take down air defenses. As far as the snatch, it looks like the 160th SOAR, that's the Night Stalkers, handled the aviation and Delta handled the stuff on the ground. Okay.

So, what happens now? Well, the various sides in Venezuela will vie for control. At first glance, there does not appear to be a coherent strategy for ensuring a US aligned faction takes control of government functions. At least at this early stage, we haven't seen evidence of any kind of transition plan. In fact, from the imagery coming out of the country, it seems as though the military and security services are still in charge. That could change.

Without a change of government plan, Trump is leaving it up to a list of variables that could lead to anybody from Maduro allies to US backed groups taking power or it could lead to instability. It's important to remember that there are several well-funded and well-armed non-state actors in the area that might see this as their moment. Again, it's still early, but there doesn't appear to have been a lot of thought put into what happens next, which increases the possibility of lots of blowback from this. We'll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Anyway, it's just a thought. Y'all have a good day.