Cuba Reports 32 Citizens Killed in U.S. Operation in Venezuela

Cuba has confirmed that 32 of its military and police officers were killed during a U.S. military operation in Venezuela over the weekend. The Cuban personnel were in Venezuela at the request of President Nicolás Maduro's government, though their specific mission remains undisclosed.

The U.S. operation, which led to the capture of President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, resulted in significant casualties, with no reported American losses, according to President Donald Trump.

Cuba declared two days of mourning for the fallen officers. President Miguel Díaz-Canel and former leader Raúl Castro extended their condolences to the victims' families.

The Cuban government condemned the U.S. action as a "criminal act of aggression and state terrorism" and announced plans to honor the deceased.

The U.S. operation followed weeks of military buildup in the region and threats by President Trump against Maduro. After the raid, Trump stated that the U.S. would "run" Venezuela "until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition."

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the leverage gained from the oil blockade and regional military presence to achieve policy objectives, stating, "We want Venezuela to move in a certain direction."

In recent months, the U.S. has seized tankers associated with Venezuela and increased military presence in the Caribbean.