Recent developments in U.S.-Venezuela tensions highlight the growing integration of cyber warfare into military operations, as seen in Operation Absolute Resolve launched on January 3, 2026. This multi-domain effort by U.S. Cyber Command and Space Command preceded a Delta Force raid that captured President Nicolás Maduro, beginning with a cyberattack around 2 a.m. local time in Caracas that disabled the power grid, plunging large areas into darkness to mask over 150 incoming aircraft including drones, fighters, and helicopters. Preceding cyber effects degraded Venezuelan air defenses, radar systems, military communications, and critical infrastructure, creating a secure pathway for the assault force while suppressing detection capabilities. Earlier phases from December 2025 included a ransomware attack on PDVSA oil systems on December 13-15, crippling administrative functions and exports, alongside strikes on drug vessels to weaken regime funding and test defenses. Authorized by President Trump at 10:46 p.m. ET on January 2, the operation exemplified non-kinetic tools layering effects for kinetic success, with no U.S. casualties reported. Analysts note this marks a shift where cyber operations enable precision strikes, raising debates on capability disclosure amid global threats