The Trump administration determined the best way to achieve its goals in Venezuela following the arrest of former dictator Nicolas Maduro was by backing his vice president, instead of the leaders of his opposition.

U.S. forces carried out the dangerous operation last weekend to arrest Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, but opted not to target any other member of his inner circle, military leaders, or government officials. Instead, the United States is focused on continuing its pressure campaign to force the remaining members of the Maduro regime to cooperate with the U.S. or risk becoming a future target in a possible subsequent U.S. mission, which the president has already threatened.