U.S. defense secretary mocks Russian air defense systems

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Russian air defense systems proved ineffective during a recent U.S. special operation in Venezuela, where they were deployed to protect the country’s airspace.

Speaking at an event, Hegseth referred to the operation, saying U.S. forces had operated in central Caracas.

“Three nights ago, about 200 of our best Americans entered the heart of Caracas. It appears those same Russian air defense systems didn’t work very well, did they?” he said.

Hegseth added that a person sought by U.S. justice was detained during the operation and said U.S. forces suffered no casualties.

He also said that, in his view, “under the leadership of U.S. President Donald Trump, the world is taking note of American power.”