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Soros-Backed Sen Gallego Triggered Over Trump’s Maduro Operation, Hit with DHS Clap Back
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Soros-Backed Sen Gallego Triggered Over Trump’s Maduro Operation, Hit with DHS Clap Back

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Alex Soros-backed U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego, who is the son of ‘a convicted felon who trafficked drugs for the Mexican Cartels,’ faced widespread criticism from social media users and a public response from the Department of Homeland Security after weighing in on the Trump administration’s military strikes and ground operations in Venezuela that culminated in the capture of Nicolás Maduro.

Maduro was indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges including Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States, according to reporting cited by The Gateway Pundit.

President Donald Trump shared video footage of the strikes, which targeted at least four sites around Caracas, Venezuela.

Following the operation, Trump told reporters Saturday that the United States now controls Venezuela and said he was “going to run the country right,” adding that it would be run “very judiciously, very fairly.”

Gallego reacted sharply after Maduro was arrested and transported out of the country without any reported American casualties. The Arizona senator characterized the operation as “embarrassing” and asserted that the United States was now “at war with Venezuela.”

Rep. Ruben Gallego, who contemplated a run for the U.S. Senate in 2020, campaigns for his one-time potential rival Mark Kelly at Tres Leches Cafe on May 30, 2019.

Gallego condemned the operation as soon as it was announced, describing it as the “second unjustified war in my life time.”

“This war is illegal, it’s embarrassing that we went from the world cop to the world bully in less than one year,” Gallego said.

“There is no reason for us to be at war with Venezuela.”

Here is Ruben Gallego and Alex Soros with their arms around each other:

The Heir: Inside the (Not So) Secret Network of Alex Soros

His remarks drew immediate responses online, including from DHS, which issued a pointed reply highlighting what it described as irony in Democratic criticism of the operation.

“Oh so NOW Democrats are opposed to a Venezuelan criminal entering our country,” DHS wrote in a post on X.

The exchange fueled additional reactions from social media users, many of whom criticized Gallego’s position and questioned his assessment of the operation.

Several posts focused on the nature of the charges against Maduro and the absence of American casualties during the strikes and subsequent ground action.

The backlash also resurfaced past reporting about Gallego’s family history.

Gallego’s father has been convicted of drug trafficking connected to Mexican cartels and was previously arrested in a separate incident involving the battery of a woman after a dispute with a landlord over rent.

According to prior public records, Gallego, who was born Ruben Marinelarena, changed his name in 2008.

As the debate intensified, other public figures joined the discussion.

Roger Stone posted comments attacking Gallego and his family, using inflammatory language directed at Gallego’s wife and asserting that Gallego’s election was rigged.

Stone also claimed that Gallego would eventually end up in prison alongside Maduro.

Stone’s remarks circulated widely online and prompted further criticism and counterattacks across social media platforms.

The controversy unfolded as Democrats and Republicans continued to clash over the scope, legality, and implications of the Trump administration’s actions in Venezuela.

While Gallego and other Democrats argued that the operation exceeded U.S. authority and risked escalation, administration officials and supporters pointed to the successful capture of Maduro and the lack of American casualties as evidence of a decisive and controlled operation.

JD Vance Delivers a PSA for Everyone Saying the Maduro Operation Was ‘Illegal’
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JD Vance Delivers a PSA for Everyone Saying the Maduro Operation Was ‘Illegal’

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Nicolás Maduro is now in U.S. custody in New York City, awaiting his first in-person appearance in an American court after U.S. special forces carried out an early-morning operation in Venezuela on Saturday to extract him and his wife, Cilia Flores.

Both were indicted in the Southern District of New York on multiple federal charges.

President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed the operation publicly Saturday morning, outlining the actions that led to the capture and transfer of the Maduros to the United States.

The White House also released a series of photographs showing senior officials monitoring the operation as it unfolded in real time.

The capture immediately reshaped the political landscape surrounding Venezuela, where questions remain about who will lead the country in the short and long term.

One of the most prominent opposition figures to Maduro’s rule, María Corina Machado, issued remarks after the news broke, stating her view on who should assume the presidency on an interim basis.

However, no definitive leadership transition has yet been announced, and the long-term direction of the Venezuelan government remains unsettled.

While Venezuelan opposition figures and many Venezuelans abroad reacted positively, political reaction in the United States was sharply divided. Several Democratic officials criticized the operation, characterizing it as unlawful and unauthorized.

Among the most vocal critics was newly sworn-in New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, who contacted the White House to object to the action.

Members of Congress also issued statements calling the operation “illegal” and labeling it an unauthorized act of war.

Vice President J.D. Vance responded directly to that criticism, defending both the legality and necessity of the operation.

In public remarks following the initial reporting, Vance said the administration had offered Maduro multiple opportunities to avoid the outcome that ultimately occurred.

The Vice President praised the U.S. military’s execution of the mission, stating, “Kudos to our brave special operators who pulled off a truly impressive operation.”

Vance then addressed claims that the operation violated U.S. law, issuing what he described as a public service announcement directed at critics.

“And PSA for everyone saying this was ‘illegal,’” Vance said.

“Maduro has multiple indictments in the United States for narcoterrorism. You don’t get to avoid justice for drug trafficking in the United States because you live in a palace in Caracas.”

Federal court records show that Maduro has been charged in connection with large-scale narcotics trafficking and related offenses, allegations that U.S. officials have cited for years in characterizing his regime as criminal rather than legitimate.

Attorney General Pam Bondi’s office has made the full list of charges publicly available through the Southern District of New York.

As images from the White House situation room circulated, some observers questioned why Vice President Vance did not appear in photographs released during the operation or attend the President’s public remarks.

Fox News White House correspondent Aishah Hasnie later reported that Vance had met with President Trump earlier Friday in West Palm Beach to discuss the strikes and participated in the operation remotely.

According to the report, Vance was not physically present at Mar-a-Lago during the operation but joined via a secure video connection and returned to Cincinnati after the mission concluded.

Fox News also reported that the White House is limiting the physical co-location of the President and Vice President when they are away from Washington due to heightened security considerations.

The administration has emphasized that the operation was narrowly focused on apprehending an individual already facing U.S. indictments, rather than initiating a broader military campaign.

Officials have stated that Maduro was given multiple opportunities to step aside or resolve his legal exposure through other means before the operation was carried out.

With Maduro now detained in New York, attention is shifting to the upcoming court proceedings and the political consequences inside Venezuela.

Meanwhile, Rubio and other senior officials continue to engage with regional partners as the United States prepares for the next phase following Maduro’s removal from power.

‘Comrade Mamdani’ Has a Big Sad Over Maduro’s Capture, Gets Absolutely Dragged Online
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‘Comrade Mamdani’ Has a Big Sad Over Maduro’s Capture, Gets Absolutely Dragged Online

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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing widespread criticism after publicly condemning the U.S. military operation that led to the capture and indictment of Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro, comments that sparked backlash from Republican lawmakers, conservative commentators, and advocates focused on drug enforcement and national security.

The controversy began Saturday after Mamdani said he had been briefed on what he described as the “U.S. military capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife,” stating that the pair were expected to be held in federal custody in New York City.

Mamdani criticized the operation as unlawful and warned it could have consequences for city residents.

“Unilaterally attacking a sovereign nation is an act of war and a violation of federal and international law,” Mamdani wrote.

He added that his administration was prioritizing the safety of Venezuelans living in New York City and said the city would “continue to monitor the situation and issue relevant guidance.”

The mayor’s remarks came hours after President Donald Trump announced that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been captured during a U.S. military operation and removed from Venezuela.

The announcement followed a night of explosions reported in Caracas. Maduro has been under U.S. indictment since 2020 on federal narco-terrorism charges.

According to federal prosecutors, Maduro and senior members of his regime coordinated with Colombian drug trafficking organizations to move large quantities of cocaine into the United States.

U.S. authorities have long characterized Maduro as the head of an illegitimate regime linked to transnational criminal networks.

Mamdani’s response prompted immediate criticism from Republican lawmakers in New York and beyond. Rep. Mike Lawler, a New York Republican, accused the mayor of sympathizing with a foreign adversary.

“The Marxist Mayor of New York City seems upset that a socialist dictator/narco terrorist is removed from power and will stand trial in New York for his illegal activities that resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Americans,” Lawler wrote, adding, “God help New York.”

Florida Rep. Carlos Giménez, who represents a district with a large Venezuelan exile population and chairs the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, also condemned Mamdani’s statement.

“Wow! The socialist mayor of NYC supporting the murderous, illegitimate narcoterrorist dictator of Venezuela! It’s pathetic, laughable, and highly unfortunate — but unsurprising,” Giménez wrote.

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis of New York urged the mayor to consider the scale of Venezuela’s humanitarian collapse before criticizing the U.S. action.

“Before defending a murderous narco terrorist, did it ever cross your mind why 8 million people—nearly equivalent to the population of NYC—fled the Maduro Marxist regime?” Malliotakis wrote.

“Maybe ask some Venezuelan New Yorkers before you bring his failed socialist oppressive policies here.”

Other national figures also weighed in. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas mocked the mayor by referring to him as “Comrade Mamdani.”

Conservative commentator Scott Jennings responded to Mamdani’s remarks by writing, “Guy using al Qaeda’s lawyer has thoughts.”

Harmeet Dhillon, the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Justice, dismissed the mayor’s comments in a brief post, writing, “Blah blah cry harder.”

Michael Henry, a Republican candidate for New York attorney general, accused Mamdani of ignoring the impact of Venezuelan-linked criminal activity in the city.

“When Tren de Aragua infiltrated and terrorized New Yorkers — including their fellow Venezuelans — you were an absentee Assemblyman,” Henry wrote. “I guess it hurts to see Socialism fail before your own very naive eyes.”

Several critics focused on the broader consequences of Venezuela’s drug trafficking operations.

Author Robert Spencer questioned the mayor’s emphasis on diplomatic concerns over public safety.

“What about the safety and security of New Yorkers whose lives have been destroyed by drugs coming in from Venezuela?” Spencer asked.

Former Arkansas Governor and U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee also criticized Mamdani’s stance, writing that he felt sorry for New Yorkers who “elected a mayor who sides with a drug trafficker & ally of Iran & Hezbollah rather than his constituents.”

Critics further pointed to Mamdani’s past statements, including earlier comments suggesting he would support the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited New York City.

“This is the same guy who said he’d arrest Benjamin Netanyahu if he came to NYC,” wrote conservative writer and podcast host Ian Haworth.

The New York Republican Party said the mayor’s remarks reflected a disconnect from the reality facing Venezuelan communities.

“While Mamdani expresses outrage,” the party said, “Venezuelans are celebrating the fall of a brutal dictator and narco-terrorist.”

Maduro’s capture has prompted celebrations among Venezuelan communities worldwide, while Mamdani’s response has intensified scrutiny of his early tenure as mayor and his approach to foreign policy and national security issues affecting the city.

Meanwhile…

NYC Jewelry World Explodes as Viral Brawl Lands Jewelers in Handcuffs
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NYC Jewelry World Explodes as Viral Brawl Lands Jewelers in Handcuffs

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A heated dispute between well-known New York jewelers escalated into a physical altercation Friday, prompting police response and resulting in assault arrests, according to video evidence and statements from law enforcement.

The incident involved Maksud Agadjani, the owner of TraxNYC, and George and Freddy Akay of Akay Diamonds.

Agadjani, who has built a significant online following with more than 3 million followers on Instagram, accused the Akays of using his name to defraud customers, a claim that sparked a public confrontation.

Video posted by Agadjani shows him approaching the Akay Diamonds booth and aggressively confronting one of the men.

In the footage, Agadjani is seen screaming directly into a man’s face, repeatedly calling him a thief while shouting profanities. The video captures a chaotic scene as bystanders gather and attempt to intervene.

At one point, Agadjani appears to be pulled away from the booth by others in the crowd. Moments later, the confrontation resumes.

Another man is seen spitting in Agadjani’s face, which immediately leads to a violent brawl.

The footage shows shoving and punches being thrown as multiple individuals become involved.

Following the incident, Agadjani shared additional videos and images on social media documenting what he said were injuries sustained during the altercation.

In one video, he displayed visible redness on his neck, which he claimed resulted from an attempt by the Akays to strangle him.

He also pointed to a red mark on his head, saying he had been struck during the fight.

Agadjani repeatedly alleged that George and Freddy Akay attempted to kill him.

In another video, he is seen using what appears to be a nebulizer, a device commonly used to treat respiratory conditions, while continuing to accuse the men of wrongdoing and describing the encounter.

The New York Police Department confirmed that officers responded to a report of an assault related to the incident.

According to the NYPD, officers were informed upon arrival that two men had approached an alleged male victim and that a verbal dispute escalated into a physical confrontation.

Police said that two individuals punched the alleged victim with closed fists, causing minor injuries.

The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that George and Freddy Akay were both arrested on assault charges in connection with the altercation.

Authorities did not release additional details regarding the charges or whether further legal action is expected.

Media outlets reached out to both George and Freddy Akay for comment following the arrests. Freddy Akay declined to comment.

No public statement was immediately available from George Akay.

The incident has drawn widespread attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the dramatic footage circulated online.

Agadjani’s large social media presence amplified the reach of the videos, which quickly spread across multiple platforms.

Democrats Melt Down, Side with Narco Terrorist Dictator, and Against the People of Venezuela
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Democrats Melt Down, Side with Narco Terrorist Dictator, and Against the People of Venezuela

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Democratic lawmakers sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s overnight military operation in Venezuela on Saturday, while Republicans largely praised the action that resulted in the capture and federal indictment of socialist leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

The U.S. operation marked a major escalation in American involvement in Venezuela and prompted immediate reaction on Capitol Hill.

Democrats argued the President lacked legal authority to carry out the operation and claimed it ran counter to U.S. interests.

Republicans, particularly those representing South Florida’s large Venezuelan exile population, described the development as a historic moment for Venezuela and the broader region.

Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego, a Democrat who has been reported to have presidential ambitions, condemned the action in an early-morning post on X shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday.

“Second unjustified war in my life time,” Gallego wrote.

“This war is illegal, it’s embarrassing that we went from the world cop to the world bully in less than one year. There is no reason for us to be at war with Venezuela.”

Democratic Sen. Andy Kim of New Jersey accused senior members of the Trump administration of misleading Congress about the intent of the operation.

Kim specifically named Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in his criticism.

“Secretaries Rubio and Hegseth looked every Senator in the eye a few weeks ago and said this wasn’t about regime change,” Kim wrote on X.

Kim also claimed the military action endangered Americans in Venezuela and across the region.

A U.S. official told The New York Times that there were no casualties during the operation.

House Democrats echoed similar concerns, with several lawmakers comparing the strike to previous U.S. military actions in Latin America.

The operation appeared to represent the most direct American military intervention in the region since former President George H.W. Bush ordered the invasion of Panama in 1989.

“He says we don’t have enough money for healthcare for Americans—but somehow we have unlimited funds for war??” Connecticut Rep. Jim McGovern, the ranking Democrat on the House Rules Committee, wrote on X.

Republicans responded forcefully in support of the President, particularly those representing Florida districts with significant Venezuelan, Cuban, and Nicaraguan communities.

Florida Rep. Carlos Gimenez said he spoke with Rubio following the operation and credited Trump with reshaping the region’s future.

“Thank you, President Donald J. Trump, for changing the course of history in our hemisphere,” Gimenez wrote on X.

“This is a historic day in Florida, home to the largest Venezuelan, Cuban, and Nicaraguan exile communities in the nation.”

Florida Sen. Rick Scott also praised the President’s decision, describing it as a major step forward for regional security.

“A new day is here for Venezuela and Latin America,” Scott wrote on X.

“The United States and our hemisphere are safer because of President Trump’s leadership. God bless America and God bless the people of Venezuela!”

Utah Sen. Mike Lee addressed questions about the legality of the operation, stating that Trump likely had the authority to act under the Constitution.

Lee said he spoke with Rubio about the matter following the seizure of Maduro.

“This action likely falls within the president’s inherent authority under Article II of the Constitution to protect U.S. personnel from an actual or imminent attack,” Lee wrote on X.

Lee added that, based on his conversation with Rubio, U.S. military involvement in Venezuela was likely concluded following Maduro’s capture.

The Trump administration has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader who headed a cartel designated as a terrorist organization and accused of trafficking drugs into the United States.

Federal prosecutors have alleged that Maduro oversaw a corrupt government that leveraged state power to facilitate large-scale narcotics operations.

President Trump dismissed Democratic criticism during a Saturday morning interview with Fox News, arguing that the operation served clear national security objectives.

“All they do is complain,” Trump said.

“They should say, ‘You know what. We did a great job.’ We’re stopping drugs from coming into this country and no one’s been able to do it until we came along.”

The political fallout from the operation underscored sharp divisions in Washington over U.S. military authority, foreign intervention, and the administration’s approach to Latin America, even as celebrations erupted among Venezuelan communities following Maduro’s capture.

Both Coaches ‘Lose Their Minds’ in Bizarre Finish to Notre Dame-Cal Basketball Game
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Both Coaches ‘Lose Their Minds’ in Bizarre Finish to Notre Dame-Cal Basketball Game

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A tense and chaotic scene unfolded at the conclusion of Notre Dame’s 72-71 loss to the California Golden Bears, as Fighting Irish head coach Micah Shrewsberry and sophomore guard Cole Certa appeared to pursue an on-court official following a disputed call that decided the game in the final seconds.

The confrontation came immediately after the final buzzer, with players and coaches stepping in to restrain both Shrewsberry and Certa as emotions spilled over.

The incident was captured on the game broadcast, where commentators speculated about the moment that triggered the visible frustration.

“It looked like he was going after one of the officials. My guess? His frustration on the and-one, four-play by Dai Dai Ames,” the broadcaster said.

The game itself was decided in dramatic fashion after a sequence of late plays that swung momentum rapidly.

Notre Dame appeared to have control in the closing seconds when Certa converted a layup to give the Fighting Irish a 67-63 lead.

California responded quickly, narrowing the deficit and setting up a final possession that would ultimately determine the outcome.

On that decisive possession, Cal guard Dai Dai Ames launched a three-pointer.

As the shot fell, a foul was called on Notre Dame, creating a four-point play opportunity that immediately altered the game’s trajectory.

Officials initially reversed the foul call, briefly appearing to nullify the free throw attempt.

However, after further review, the reversal itself was overturned, reinstating the foul and sending Ames to the free throw line.

Ames converted the free throw, giving the Golden Bears the lead.

Notre Dame had one final opportunity to respond, but its last shot attempt fell short, sealing the one-point loss.

As the horn sounded, Certa could be seen walking directly toward one of the officials, while Shrewsberry moved quickly toward the same area of the court.

Teammates and staff intervened, holding both back before the situation escalated further.

The official involved turned briefly to observe the commotion and then exited the court without engaging in any confrontation.

The emotional reaction reflected the significance of the moment for a Notre Dame team that had fought through a tightly contested game and saw its chances undone by a late ruling.

The loss dropped the Fighting Irish to 10-5 on the season and 1-1 in conference play.

Certa, who was central to the closing moments of the game, has taken on an expanded role in his second season with the program.

After averaging 8.1 minutes per game last year, he is now playing 20.3 minutes per contest.

Through the current stretch of the season, Certa is averaging nine points and 1.4 rebounds per game while shooting 37.9 percent from the field.

Shrewsberry, who took over as head coach ahead of the 2023-24 season, remains in the early stages of his tenure in South Bend.

Across parts of three seasons, he holds a career record of 38-43 and has yet to guide the Fighting Irish to an NCAA Tournament appearance.

Saturday’s loss added another close finish to a season that has included several tight contests, though this one stood out for its dramatic ending and the postgame scene that followed.

While no disciplinary action was announced in the immediate aftermath, the confrontation drew attention to the intensity surrounding the disputed call and the pressure of late-game officiating in a one-point contest.

Notre Dame will look to regroup as conference play continues, while the final moments of the loss to Cal are likely to remain a focal point of discussion surrounding officiating decisions and sideline conduct in closely contested college basketball games.

Venezuelan Communities Worldwide Celebrate Historic Arrest of Maduro
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Venezuelan Communities Worldwide Celebrate Historic Arrest of Maduro

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Venezuelans across the globe erupted in celebration Saturday after U.S. forces captured longtime Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and transported him and his wife to the United States to face federal charges, marking a dramatic turning point for a country whose political and economic collapse has driven one of the largest migration crises in recent history.

Celebrations broke out within hours of the operation in cities across the United States, South America, and Europe, as news spread that Maduro had been taken into custody and formally indicted on multiple federal counts.

For many Venezuelans living abroad, the development represented a moment they had waited years to see.

In Doral, Florida — a South Florida city that is home to the largest Venezuelan community in the United States — hundreds of people flooded the streets beginning around 4 a.m., gathering outside El Arepazo, a popular Venezuelan restaurant that quickly became the focal point of the celebration.

“Liberty! Liberty! Liberty!” the crowd chanted as they waved Venezuelan flags, banged pots and pans, and embraced one another.

Oriana Spivak celebrates near Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, while President Trump has a press conference about US forces capturing Venezuela’s leader Nicolas Maduro after bombing the capital Caracas on January 3, 2026.

Videos and photos from the scene showed emotional scenes, with some participants crying, others dancing to Venezuelan music, and several popping champagne bottles as the celebrations continued into the morning.

One woman, speaking to NBC Miami, described the moment as deeply personal and historic.

“I started crying. I’ve seen my dad cry three times in my life: his dad dying, Fidel dying and today…It’s historic,” she said.

Another man credited the United States for the operation and expressed optimism about Venezuela’s future.

“I’m very excited…We are celebrating. Thanks to President Trump and the U.S. military for this perfect operation,” he said.

A third participant summed up his reaction more simply, saying he had “no words” for what he described as a monumental moment.

Similar scenes unfolded overseas.

In Madrid, Spain, and Santiago, Chile, Venezuelans gathered in public spaces, raising Venezuelan flags alongside American flags as they marked the capture of Maduro.

“We are free. We are all happy that the dictatorship has fallen and that we have a free country,” said Khaty Yanez, a Venezuelan woman who has lived in Chile for the past seven years, speaking to Reuters.

“My joy is too big,” said Jose Gregorio, another Venezuelan living in Chile.

“After so many years, after so many struggles, after so much work, today is the day. Today is the day of freedom,” he added.

Maduro’s rule has coincided with a prolonged economic collapse and political repression that triggered a massive exodus from Venezuela.

Since 2018, nearly 8 million Venezuelans — roughly 20 percent of the country’s population — have fled the nation after being unable to afford basic necessities such as food.

According to the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration, approximately 85 percent of those who left settled in neighboring countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

Federal prosecutors allege that Maduro presided over what they described as “a corrupt, illegitimate government that, for decades, has leveraged government power to protect and promote illegal activity, including drug trafficking.”

The indictment accuses Maduro of partnering with “some of the most violent and prolific drug traffickers and narco-terrorists in the world” to move massive quantities of cocaine into the United States.

According to court filings, prosecutors allege that by 2020 Maduro and his associates were responsible for facilitating the trafficking of as much as 250 tons of cocaine into the U.S., using a network that included go-fast vessels, fishing boats, container ships, and aircraft operating from clandestine airstrips.

The capture and indictment of Maduro represent one of the most significant developments involving Venezuela in decades, drawing international attention and emotional reactions from Venezuelans who have lived for years in exile as a result of the country’s turmoil.

Marco Rubio Channels His Inner Biggie Smalls While Explaining How Trump is Different
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Marco Rubio Channels His Inner Biggie Smalls While Explaining How Trump is Different

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Senator Marco Rubio said Nicolás Maduro repeatedly ignored opportunities to avoid confrontation and instead chose actions that directly threatened the national interests of the United States, prompting decisive action under President Trump.

Speaking after the events of the night, Rubio framed the situation as the result of deliberate choices by Maduro, arguing that generous alternatives had been offered and rejected. He said those decisions ultimately led to the outcome now facing Venezuela’s leader.

“But I want to be clear about one thing, Nicolas Maduro had multiple opportunities to avoid this,” Rubio said.

“He was provided multiple very, very, very generous offers, and chose instead to act like a wild man. Chose instead to play around, and the result is what we saw tonight.”

Rubio said the broader message extends beyond Venezuela and should be understood by leaders around the world who believe they can test U.S. resolve without consequences.

He described Maduro as part of a pattern of foreign actors who, in his words, “like to play games,” assuming that nothing serious will happen.

“The other message here is the following,” Rubio said.

“You have a guy, like many people around the world, they like to play games. You have a guy who decides he’s going to invite Iran into his country. Is going to, you know, do the confiscation of American oil companies, is going to flood our country with gang members, is is going to take Americans prisoner and try to hold them for hostage and trade them like he was able to do with the Biden administration.”

Rubio said Maduro’s actions reflected a belief that the United States would not respond forcefully, a belief he said was rooted in past experiences.

He argued that assumption no longer applies under the current administration.

“Basically likes to play games all this time and thinks nothing’s going to going to happen,” Rubio said.

“And I hope what people now understand is we have a president, the 47th president United States, is not a game player.”

Rubio emphasized that President Trump operates differently from previous leaders, describing him as someone who follows through on commitments rather than relying on rhetoric.

Drawing on his own experience in Washington, Rubio said he has watched administrations talk about action without delivering results.

“When he tells you that he’s going to do something, when he’s going to tell you he’s going to address a problem, he means it. He actions it,” Rubio said.

“I can tell you, I’ve watched this process now for 14-15, years, been around it. Everybody talks. I’m going to do this. I’m going to do this. I’m going to do that. When I get there, we’re going to do this.”

Rubio said the difference, in his view, is that President Trump acts when he identifies a threat.

He expressed frustration that foreign leaders still fail to grasp that reality.

“This is a president of action like I don’t understand yet how they haven’t figured this out,” Rubio said.

“And now, if you don’t know, now you know, because this is the way it’s going to play out.”

He added that the response was not about speeches or symbolic gestures, but about addressing a direct threat to the United States.

“And I think people need to understand that this is not a president that just talks and does letters and press conferences,” Rubio said.

“And you know, if he says he’s serious about something, he means it, and this is something that was a direct threat to the national interest of the United States, and the President addressed it.”

Rubio also described President Trump as someone who prefers peace but will not tolerate provocation.

He said Maduro could have chosen a different path entirely.

“There’s a president of peace, by the way,” Rubio said.

“This guy had multiple opportunities to find his way somewhere else and figure out another he could have been living somewhere else right now, very happy, but instead he wanted to play big boy.”

According to Rubio, the lesson should be clear for other leaders watching closely.

“I think that the message here should be for the world,” Rubio said.

“Look, the President doesn’t go out looking for people to pick fights with. He’s not. Generally wants to get along with everybody. Well, talk and meet with anybody, but don’t play games.”

Rubio concluded by warning that testing President Trump carries real consequences.

“Don’t play games with this President’s in office, because it’s not going to turn out well,” Rubio said.

“And so I hope that you know, you know, I guess that lesson was learned last night, and we hope it will be instructive moving forward.”

WATCH:

‘America is Back’: Pete Hegseth Drops a FAFO in Epic Speech on Historic Maduro Mission
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‘America is Back’: Pete Hegseth Drops a FAFO in Epic Speech on Historic Maduro Mission

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Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered forceful praise for President Trump following what he described as a historic joint military and law enforcement operation, crediting the President’s leadership and the performance of American forces for what he called a flawless execution.

Speaking directly to President Trump, Hegseth framed the operation as a defining moment for American power and resolve, emphasizing both the scale of the mission and the discipline of those involved.

He characterized the raid as a rare demonstration of American capability that few nations could attempt, let alone carry out successfully.

“Well, thank you, Mr. President. Finally, a commander in chief the world respects and the American people deserve,” Hegseth said.

“And as the President said, words can barely capture the bravery and the power and the precision of this historic operation, a massive joint military and law enforcement raid, flawlessly executed by the greatest Americans our country has to offer.”

Hegseth repeatedly highlighted the role of American service members, describing them as unmatched in skill and resolve.

He said the operation reflected the highest standards of the U.S. military and law enforcement working in coordination, and he credited those who carried out the mission during overnight hours.

“American warriors are second to none, the best in the world and the best of our country,” Hegseth said.

“What I what all of us witnessed last night was sheer guts and grit, gallantry and glory of the American warrior. I’m simply humbled by such man, such men.”

He also acknowledged senior leadership involved in overseeing the mission and those who remained on duty during the operation.

“And I tip my hat to our chairman, Dan ‘Razin’ Caine, and all those Americans who stood watch last night. Our warriors are the elite of America,” he said.

According to Hegseth, the operation was not only a military success but also a signal to adversaries abroad.

He said President Trump’s leadership demonstrated a combination of authority and decisiveness that he argued no other leader has shown.

“And again, President Trump has your back,” Hegseth said.

“No other country on planet Earth, and it’s not even close, could pull this kind of operation off, and no other president has ever shown this kind of leadership, courage, and resolve, the most powerful combination the world has ever seen.”

Hegseth said the mission showed the United States’ ability to project power and enforce consequences when necessary.

He emphasized the coordination and reach involved in the operation, describing it as a clear warning to those who threaten American interests.

“As the President said, our adversaries remain on notice,” he said.

“America can project our will anywhere, anytime, the coordination, the stealth, the lethality, the precision, the very long arm of American justice, all on full display in the middle of the night.”

Hegseth directly referenced foreign leaders and hostile actors, stating that opportunities to change course had passed.

“Nicholas Maduro had his chance, just like Iran had their chance until they didn’t, and until he didn’t,” he said.

He tied the operation to broader priorities under President Trump, including stopping criminal organizations, drug trafficking, and reclaiming resources he said had been taken from the United States.

“He Effed around, and he found out President Trump is deadly serious about stopping the flow of gangs and violence to our country, deadly serious about stopping the flow of drugs and poison to our people,” Hegseth said.

“Deadly serious about getting back the oil that was stolen from us, and deadly serious about re establishing American deterrence and dominance in the Western Hemisphere.”

Hegseth concluded by framing the mission as part of a larger effort focused on national security and American interests, while affirming the role of the War Department under President Trump.

“This is about the safety, security, freedom, and prosperity of the American people,” he said.

“This is America first. This is peace through strength, and the United States War Department is proud to help deliver it. Welcome to 2026, and under President Trump, America is back.”

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Nick Shirley Brings Receipts on Even More Minnesota Daycare Fraud
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Nick Shirley Brings Receipts on Even More Minnesota Daycare Fraud

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Independent journalist Nick Shirley said he uncovered what he described as blatant fraud involving a Minnesota daycare that was shut down, reopened under a new name, and received millions of dollars in government funding within a single year, raising broader concerns about oversight and potential misuse of taxpayer funds.

Shirley reported from Minnesota, where he focused on a daycare previously known as Creative Minds Daycare.

According to Shirley, the facility was closed and then reopened almost immediately under a different name.

“Here in Minnesota, blatant fraud is taking place within the government and the Somalian population,” Shirley said.

“Right here you see a daycare center. It says it’s creative minds daycare. Creative minds. Daycare was actually shut down and was reopened the next day, underneath the name super kids.”

Shirley said the newly renamed Super Kids Daycare has received substantial public funding in a short period of time.

“And just in the past year, in 2025 this daycare alone has received $2.45 million,” he said.

Shirley said the case reflects broader allegations involving some daycares and other businesses operating in Minnesota. He said there are rumors that funds obtained through fraud are being sent overseas.

“It’s rumored here that some of these daycares and these other businesses that are committing fraud have been rumored to be giving money back to terrorist groups in Somalia,” Shirley said.

Shirley also referenced betting market activity related to the potential legal consequences for those involved.

“There’s a 35% chance on Poly market right now that those people who helped defraud the government will be deported back to Somalia,” he said.

Shirley said the scale of funding involved suggests that opening a daycare could be a highly profitable venture due to government subsidies, pointing to what he described as visible signs of wealth associated with the facility.

“But this daycare alone received over $2.45 million,” Shirley said.

“So maybe if you want to become a millionaire here in the United States, you should open up a daycare center and receive government funding from a governor like Tim Walz here inside the state of Minnesota.”

While reporting from the site, Shirley described several high-end vehicles parked outside the daycare.

“Because these people are making $2.45 million and right now you have a BMW Range Rover, BMW, BMW, in a van outside of this daycare center here in Minneapolis, Minnesota,” he said.

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