The United States carried out what may become one of the most consequential military raids in modern history. In this episode of The Weekly Break Out, CSIS defense expert Mark Cancian analyzes the US operation in Venezuela, explaining how American forces penetrated Russian-made S-300 air defense systems, leveraged Cyber Command and Space Command and executed a complex joint mission without American losses. The discussion explores what the raid reveals about Russian air defense weaknesses, lessons learned from past US failures and what China and Russia can — and cannot — replicate, particularly in a Taiwan scenario. Cancian also assesses the long-term implications for US military posture in the Western Hemisphere and whether sustained forces in the region are now inevitable. Underwritten by Leonardo DRS. Stories:

After US raid on Venezuela, analysts weigh lessons about Russian air defenses https://breakingdefense.com/2026/01/after-us-raid-on-venezuela-analysts-weigh-lessons-about-russian-air-defenses/

150 aircraft, cyber effects and 'overwhelming force:' How the Venezuela operation unfolded https://breakingdefense.com/2026/01/venezuela-150-aircraft-cyber-effects-maduro-operation-how-it-happened-caine/

US attacks Venezuela, captures leader Maduro in 'spectacular assault': Trump https://breakingdefense.com/2026/01/us-military-attacks-venezuela-captures-maduro-trump-says/