In this first part of his conversation with Jacob Heilbrunn, Daniel Runde, Senior Advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), delivers a forceful assessment of the U.S. operation in Venezuela, describing it as a “textbook, flawless raid” made possible by impeccable intelligence and extensive military preparation. He argues that the operation fundamentally reshapes the political narrative around Venezuela and sends a clear deterrent signal to hostile actors worldwide.