Ex-Green Beret Claims CIA and FBI Sabotaged Venezuela Raid Attempt
Jordan Goudreau, a former Green Beret implicated in a failed raid in Venezuela in 2020, claims the CIA and FBI sabotaged his efforts to overthrow President Maduro. His attorneys allege he had support from the Trump administration for this operation, which ended disastrously, leading to several deaths and imprisonments. Goudreau faces weapons smuggling charges as he asserts that the U.S. government emboldened Maduro’s regime by undermining his mission.
In Miami, former Green Beret Jordan Goudreau, implicated in a failed attempt to overthrow Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in 2020, has publicly criticized the CIA and FBI. He asserts that these agencies undermined his operations, which purportedly had backing from the Trump administration. Goudreau’s attorneys have now claimed that he received authorization for his clandestine raid from high-level officials in the executive branch, specifically naming Vice President Mike Pence. Following a botched incursion that reportedly resulted in fatalities and imprisonment of several operatives, Goudreau’s statements have emerged as he contends that this government meddling has emboldened Maduro.
In a recent court document, Goudreau’s legal representatives explained that the unsuccessful amphibious raid—dubbed “Operation Gideon”—was intended to assist Venezuelan opposition leaders in removing Maduro, who has long been accused of electoral fraud. Reports indicate that Goudreau attempted to fundraise through various channels, including wealthy Americans interested in Venezuela’s oil sectors, but the investigation by Associated Press found no evidence of U.S. governmental approval for his invasion plan. Additionally, Goudreau has gained attention for branding the operation as the “Bay of Piglets,” a play on the infamous 1961 Cuban operation.
Goudreau has also implicated Keith Schiller, a former bodyguard of President Trump, as a recruiter for the mission and claims he met with representatives of Venezuelan opposition leaders. Despite his assertions, aides to Juan Guaidó had cut ties with him, citing concerns about his mental stability and lack of U.S. government endorsement. Currently facing federal weapons smuggling charges, Goudreau’s legal challenges may reflect broader political debates as he expresses hope that the incoming Biden administration may view him more favorably than his predecessors.
As his trial approaches, Goudreau has made provocative statements alluding to his situation resembling that of individuals charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol invasion, suggesting he anticipates potential support from governmental authorities. His legal battle continues as prosecutors plan to present DNA evidence linking him to several firearms associated with the incursion, as well as details of financial expenditures related to a yacht involved in the smuggling operation.
The narrative surrounding Jordan Goudreau revolves around his involvement in a failed military operation in Venezuela, aimed at toppling Nicolás Maduro, whose government has faced extensive criticism for oppressive practices. Goudreau had attempted to forge connections with the Venezuelan opposition, seeking to position himself as a key operative for this coup attempt. The fallout from this venture has had significant implications, not only for Goudreau but also in the context of U.S.-Venezuelan relations amid allegations of U.S. interference in the region’s political landscape. The context of the Trump administration’s tumultuous foreign policy during this period garnered further scrutiny and complicates the legal proceedings against Goudreau.
In summary, Jordan Goudreau’s accusations against the CIA and FBI reflect an ongoing controversy regarding U.S. involvement in foreign interventions, particularly in Venezuela. His claims of governmental sanction for his failed coup attempt have been met with skepticism, particularly from U.S. officials who deny any connection. The situation remains complex, highlighting issues of accountability, mental health, and the repercussions of political machinations that extend beyond Goudreau’s legal troubles.
Original Source: apnews.com
