Republicans Defend Trump's Venezuela Operation, Cite Legal Precedent

Republican lawmakers are defending a reported U.S. operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. They argue it was a legal use of force against a wanted criminal. The defense comes after Democratic critics called the plan reckless. Republicans now say those critics have "egg on their face." They point to a 2020 U.S. indictment against Maduro on narcoterrorism charges. GOP officials argue this provided clear legal grounds for a capture operation. They say similar actions have been taken against other indicted foreign leaders. The operation, planned for last Saturday, was ultimately canceled. U.S. officials have not confirmed the details publicly. The debate centers on the legality and wisdom of such covert actions.