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The New York Times and Washington Post chose not to publish details of a secret US raid on Venezuela to protect American troops. This decision highlights the balance between national security and media responsibility amid political tensions.
A destroyed anti-aircraft unit at La Carlota military air base in Venezuela after US strikes. (Photo: Reuters)
New Delhi,UPDATED: Jan 4, 2026 11:13 IST
The New York Times and The Washington Post were aware of a secret US raid on Venezuela shortly before it was scheduled to begin, but chose not to publish the information to avoid endangering American troops, according to reports.
American news website Semafor reported, citing people familiar with communications between the administration and the news organisations, that senior editors at both newspapers were briefed on sensitive operational details ahead of the mission. After internal deliberations, the newsrooms decided to temporarily withhold publication, citing concerns over the safety of US personnel involved in the operation.
The decision reflects a longstanding tradition in American journalism of exercising restraint on matters of national security, particularly when lives may be at risk. The move is notable amid a period of deep hostility between the US president and legacy media outlets, which nevertheless continue to play a central role in national security reporting.
In a dramatic and unprecedented escalation on Saturday, the United States launched military strikes on Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, and captured the country’s sitting President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife Cilia Flores, triggering shockwaves across the world. US President Donald Trump said the action was aimed at dismantling an alleged narco-terror network, while Caracas denounced the operation as an illegal act of war and a blatant violation of international law.
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Published On:
Jan 4, 2026
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