In a clandestine operation reminiscent of a Cold War spy thriller, U.S. federal agent Edwin Lopez attempted to persuade Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s chief pilot, General Bitner Villegas, to divert Maduro’s plane to a location where U.S. authorities could arrest him. The plot, which unfolded over 16 months, involved encrypted messaging, secret meetings, and promises of immense wealth for the pilot. Despite Villegas providing his cell number as a sign of potential interest, the plan ultimately failed. The scheme highlights the U.S. government’s persistent efforts to oust Maduro, whom it accuses of undermining Venezuela’s democracy and aiding drug traffickers and terrorist groups. The operation, which began under President Joe Biden and continued under Donald Trump, also included the seizure of two of Maduro’s luxury jets in the Dominican Republic. Lopez, a seasoned Homeland Security Investigations agent, retired in July but continued his efforts to sway Villegas, even offering a $50 million reward for Maduro’s capture. However, Villegas remained loyal, publicly reaffirming his allegiance to Maduro in a televised appearance. The failed plot underscores the complexities and risks of U.S. efforts to destabilize Maduro’s regime.
A federal agent’s daring plan: Recruit Maduro’s pilot to turn on the Venezuelan leader
