U.S. troops will not be deployed on the ground in Venezuela, Speaker Mike Johnson affirmed on Monday. His statement followed a comprehensive briefing by President Donald Trump’s top aides about the weekend operation that led to the ousting of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

“We don’t expect troops on the ground,” Johnson said after the two-hour session with senior congressional leaders on Capitol Hill. He emphasized the U.S. will limit its role to supporting the establishment of an interim government, expected to soon announce elections.

The briefing, which was the first in-person update since the dramatic Saturday morning raid, also saw Maduro and his wife plead not guilty to charges including drug trafficking in a Manhattan federal court.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with other key administration officials, discussed the Venezuelan situation and the subsequent political landscape with bipartisan leaders from significant congressional committees. Despite the detailed briefing, reactions showed a stark division along party lines.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed dissatisfaction with the administration's plan for Venezuela, labeling it as vague and based on wishful thinking. He also raised concerns about the possibility of similar U.S. interventions in other nations.

In defense, Johnson clarified that the action taken was not aimed at regime change but was a demand for a change in behavior from the existing regime. He also announced further briefings scheduled for all members of the House and Senate to ensure broader understanding and transparency.

Meanwhile, reports of explosions in Caracas during the briefing have heightened tensions, with a White House official stating the U.S. is closely monitoring the situation but is not involved. The officials and lawmakers also discussed potential external disruptions from countries like Iran, China, and Russia.

Criticism also arose over the method of briefing, with some lawmakers frustrated about not being included in the initial discussions. Senate Judiciary Committee leaders called for a more inclusive approach in sharing critical information.

As the situation in Venezuela evolves, U.S. officials and congressional leaders continue to navigate the complex political and security landscape, aiming to facilitate a peaceful transition while addressing domestic and international concerns about the future direction of U.S. foreign policy in the region.