China's cybersecurity firm analyzes US cyberwarfare in military strike on Venezuela

A cybersecurity expert told the Global Times that with its cyberattack capabilities, the US typically aims to gain deep control over other countries’ information systems and continuously conduct covert information gathering; during wartime, these capabilities can be converted into battlefield intelligence advantages, enabling attacks on critical infrastructure such as financial and military systems at any time, which could further lead to the collapse and disintegration of societal operations.

According to US media reports, the US side suggested that it used cyberattacks or other technical capabilities to cut power in Caracas during strikes on the Venezuelan capital. The US side also reportedly confirmed that US Cyber Command participated in the operation.

According to the latest report by Antiy, “the blackout in Caracas was largely intended to provide more covert support for the low-altitude entry and operations of [the US] helicopter fleet, requiring precision, certainty, and controllability. The likelihood of power infrastructure being compromised by firepower strikes or physical damage is relatively low, whereas cyberattacks are more likely to cause blackouts, thereby ‘opening operational channels’ for subsequent US airstrikes and special operations.”

“It cannot be ruled out that the US attempted to disable its opponent’s air defense weapon systems through cyberattacks during the operation.”