Schmitt Defends Venezuela Operation, Slams Democrats

Senator Eric Schmitt forcefully defended the U.S. operation that led to the removal of Nicolás Maduro, calling Democratic criticism political grandstanding. Responding to questions from correspondent Daniel Compatangelo, Schmitt said the mission was a major success for the U.S. military and law enforcement, arguing Maduro was an illegitimate communist dictator who enabled criminal networks and hostile foreign powers in the region. Schmitt emphasized that U.S. forces do not have boots on the ground, said a continuity of government is in place in Venezuela, and argued the United States now holds significant leverage through naval enforcement.