Trump Hails 'Discombobulator’, Says It Blocked Chinese, Russian Weapons During Maduro Raid

Last Updated:February 14, 2026, 07:15 IST

Donald Trump revealed a secret US military device used in Venezuela operation, detailing its role in detaining Nicolás Maduro and neutralising enemy defenses.

US President Donald Trump on Friday spoke publicly for the first time about what he described as a secret American military device used during the January operation in Venezuela. Addressing troops at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, he said the weapon — which he called a “discombobulator" — blocked enemy defence systems from responding during the mission.

According to Trump, the technology stopped equipment supplied by Russia and China from functioning. “They never got a shot off," he told soldiers and their families, adding that details about the device would be revealed someday.

The Republican leader was meeting the special forces unit involved in the pre-dawn raid that removed Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro from power. It was the first time he had discussed the device at a public event after briefly mentioning it in earlier interviews.

Night Operation Caracas

The operation took place on January 3, when US forces launched strikes on military targets before flying helicopters into the Venezuelan capital under cover of darkness. Troops entered a heavily guarded compound and detained Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

The Venezuelan government later reported that 83 people were killed and more than 112 injured during the assault. No American soldiers died, though Trump said three helicopter pilots were wounded.

Maduro was transported to the United States and is now being held in custody. He faces drug-trafficking and related charges and has pleaded not guilty. His next hearing is scheduled for March 17 in New York.

Political Fallout

Following the operation, Washington recognised former vice president Delcy Rodríguez as Venezuela’s leader, on the condition that her administration cooperate with US demands, including oil access and easing state repression.

Speaking at the base, Trump praised the troops involved and described the mission as proof of American military strength. He again hinted that the mysterious weapon played a key role in neutralising the country’s defences.

Despite repeated references, the US government has not released technical details about the so-called “discombobulator".

News world Trump Hails 'Discombobulator’, Says It Blocked Chinese, Russian Weapons During Maduro Raid

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