American Airstrike Claims Lives of 32 Cubans in Venezuela

American Air Attack in Venezuela

The Cuban government has reported that 32 of its citizens were killed during a military operation carried out by the United States aimed at capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. They were described as members of the armed forces and intelligence agents, losing their lives "in combat actions," leading the government to declare two days of national mourning.

The Cuban military noted that these individuals "fell after fierce resistance, in direct combat with the attackers or due to bombings on facilities." Cuba, a long-time ally of Venezuela, has provided personal security details for Maduro for many years.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that his country had offered protection to Maduro and his wife "at the request" of Venezuela. American General Dan Caine reported that U.S. agents monitored Maduro's movements for months before the military launched the attack.

American media have reported that the CIA recruited a "Venezuelan source" who provided information regarding Maduro's exact location. While Venezuela has not confirmed the total number of casualties, military officials declared that "a large portion" of Maduro's security team would count among the deceased. An official statement issued by the Cuban government emphasized: "Our compatriots fulfilled their duty with dignity and heroism."

According to a Venezuelan official cited by the New York Times, the total death toll is expected to be around 80 and is anticipated to rise. In the days following Maduro's capture, questions have arisen regarding potential actions by the Trump administration against Cuba, given the complicated relationship between the two nations.

American President Donald Trump suggested that military action may not be necessary, adding that "Cuba is ready to fall." Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized Cuba as a "disaster" led by "incompetent and senile people." Following a memorandum signed by Trump, economic restrictions on Cuba have been tightened, continuing an embargo that has been in place since 1962.