1. Visit with U.S. Soldiers Wounded in the Maduro Raid

• Senator Ted Cruz visits three U.S. soldiers wounded during a raid intended to arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
• All soldiers are recovering in stable condition and none suffered life‑threatening injuries.
• One soldier helped plan and lead the raid and continued fighting after being shot.
• Two soldiers requested keepsakes from their injuries (a bullet and shrapnel), which Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved as a morale gesture.
• Emphasis on:
  • Heroism and discipline of U.S. forces
  • No American fatalities despite being outnumbered
  • Significant Cuban forces defending Maduro were reportedly killed

2. Symbolism and Morale

• Soldiers and their families (wives present) showed strong morale and faith.
• Soldiers expressed eagerness to return to duty.
• A former commanding officer expressed regret at missing the mission, reinforcing camaraderie and pride.

3. Meeting with Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado

• Cruz met with Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader now living in exile in the United States.
• Machado:
  • Previously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
  • Met with President Donald Trump at the White House
  • Symbolically presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize as gratitude for U.S. support

4. Political Situation in Venezuela

• Widespread celebration in Venezuela following Maduro’s removal.
• Some political prisoners released, though still monitored.
• Current acting leadership (Delcy Rodríguez) is described as illegitimate and a continuation of the Maduro regime.
• Machado strongly advocates for:
  • Free and fair elections
  • A swift election timeline (Cruz suggests within six months)

5. Bipartisan Senate Meeting

• Machado met with about a dozen U.S. senators, including Republicans and Democrats.
• Cruz praises her decision to pursue bipartisan unity instead of partisan attacks.
• Unity from the U.S. is portrayed as critical for Venezuela’s democratic transition.

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