Extraction of Nobel Laureate MarĂa Corina Machado
Venezuelan opposition figure MarĂa Corina Machado recently traveled to Oslo to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Her departure from Venezuela involved an extraction operation facilitated by a team of U.S. military veterans.
Operation Details
Bryan Stern, founder of the Grey Bull Rescue Foundation and a U.S. Special Forces veteran, led the mission. Stern and his team, composed of U.S. military veterans, have conducted various extractions globally. Stern described this operation as unique, citing Machado's public profile as a significant factor in its complexity.
Mission Planning and Execution
The team had a week to plan the mission, dubbed Operation Golden Dynamite. A land route was deemed unfeasible due to numerous checkpoints. The chosen method of transport was by sea.
U.S. military forces maintain a presence off Venezuela's coast, having reportedly destroyed nearly two dozen vessels suspected of narco-trafficking in recent months, resulting in at least 87 fatalities. Stern stated he coordinated with U.S. officials regarding their presence in the operational area to avoid conflict. He specified avoiding vessel types commonly associated with narco-trafficking to prevent engagement with U.S. military assets.
The initial rendezvous in the Caribbean Sea was not met as planned, necessitating a change in approach. The extraction involved transferring Machado between boats in challenging conditions, including darkness and high waves. Stern recounted the cautious approach between the two vessels due to concerns about identity, with Machado ultimately confirming her presence vocally.
Journey to Oslo
Upon transfer, Machado was transported to a Caribbean island, reportedly Curaçao. From there, she continued her journey to Oslo via private aircraft. Stern commented on Machado's resilience during the challenging sea transit, noting her lack of complaint despite difficult conditions reported by the veteran team. He also remarked on her sustained political activities over the years.