US Raid to Capture Nicolás Maduro: CNN Analysis Reveals ‘Extraordinary Risk’ as Helicopters Land Under Heavy Fire

A CNN forensic analysis of eyewitness videos has revealed just how close US forces came to disaster during the operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

The raid, which took place on January 3, ended in a brief but intense firefight inside the Fort Tiuna military complex in Caracas. CNN’s reconstruction of more than 50 videos and images shows US helicopters descending into a heavily fortified zone while under sustained attack.

Experts say the most dangerous moment came during a two-minute window when a US transport helicopter landed, unloaded troops, and took off again amid heavy crossfire. During that period, the aircraft moved slowly at low altitude, making it a vulnerable target for even basic weapons.

Risky Landing at Maduro’s Compound

CNN’s analysis suggests US forces chose the most hazardous landing spot—directly inside Maduro’s compound—rather than a safer nearby area. This decision increased the risk of the operation but also allowed US troops to reach the president quickly.

Video footage shows a fierce battle unfolding as US attack helicopters engaged Venezuelan air defenses overhead while transport aircraft approached the compound.

The mission, according to CNN’s reconstruction, centred on Fort Tiuna, one of Venezuela’s largest military complexes. The location has long been considered a key stronghold for the country’s armed forces and government leadership.

A Strategic Air Campaign to Clear the Way

The operation began in the early hours of January 3 with a series of air strikes targeting Venezuela’s radar, communications, and air-defence systems. CNN reviewed satellite imagery and eyewitness videos showing explosions and smoke around key military sites.

More than 150 aircraft were reportedly involved, including bombers, fighters, and surveillance platforms. The aim was to cripple air defences and create a clear path for the special operations helicopters.

One of the first targets was Higuerote airport, about 50 miles east of Caracas. CNN geolocated videos showing explosions at the site, which houses Russian-made Buk-M2 surface-to-air missile systems. Analysts suggested some of the strikes may have involved one-way attack drones, similar to systems seen in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.