Story perspectives

Trump Excludes Gabbard from Controversial Military Operation

1/8/2026

50 10

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump excluded Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard from his planning team for Operation Absolute Resolve.
The operation involved missile strikes and the reported capture of President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.
Gabbard, who opposed U.S. military interventions, was sidelined by key administration officials.
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the national security team and dismissed claims of internal division.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump excluded Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard from his planning team for Operation Absolute Resolve.
The operation involved missile strikes and the reported capture of President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.
Gabbard, who opposed U.S. military interventions, was sidelined by key administration officials.
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the national security team and dismissed claims of internal division.