In a bold statement that has sent ripples through global security circles, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has claimed American special forces conducted a high-stakes operation in the heart of Venezuela's capital without triggering Russian-made air defence systems stationed there.
Operation in Downtown Caracas
The revelation came on January 06, 2026, when Secretary Hegseth detailed that nearly two hundred US troops moved through the streets of downtown Caracas. According to his account, the Russian air defence systems, which are deployed to protect the Venezuelan government led by Nicolás Maduro, failed to activate during the entire American movement.
Hegseth framed this incident as a significant demonstration of American operational dominance during risky missions abroad. He emphasised that US forces operated openly in central Caracas, yet the much-touted Russian technology did not respond, raising serious questions about its reliability in real-world scenarios.
A Direct Jab at Moscow's Military Prowess
The US Defence Secretary did not mince words, using the opportunity to openly ridicule Moscow's military capabilities. His remarks were a direct challenge to the effectiveness of Russian defence exports and their operational readiness.
This public mocking follows a recent US military operation within Venezuela. Hegseth's comments are clearly intended to serve as proof of American technological and tactical superiority, especially in regions where rival powers like Russia have established a security footprint.
Implications for Global Security
The incident highlights several critical points for international observers:
- The vulnerability of advanced defence systems to sophisticated evasion tactics.
- The escalating shadow war of influence between the US and Russia in Latin America.
- The precarious position of the Maduro government, which relies on foreign military hardware for protection.
By repeating that Russian defences "failed" during the Caracas operation, Hegseth has not only scored a propaganda point but also potentially altered the risk calculus for future engagements in contested zones globally. The event underscores the ongoing, high-tension competition for influence in America's strategic backyard.
