Tragic Deaths of Cuban Nationals Highlight Tensions Following US Operation in Venezuela

Wed Jan 07 2026 01:59:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent operation by the United States to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro resulted in the deaths of 32 Cuban nationals, underscoring the intricate web of alliances and hostilities in the region.

The US operation against Nicolás Maduro's regime in Venezuela resulted in the deaths of 32 Cubans, sparking a national mourning in Cuba. The Cuban government emphasized the heroism of its military personnel involved in the operation, while discussions arise about potential implications for US-Cuban relations.

The Cuban government has confirmed that 32 of its nationals were killed during the recent US operation aimed at capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The deceased were said to be members of Cuba's armed forces and intelligence services, leading to a declaration of two days of national mourning in Cuba.

While the Cuban statement did not elaborate on the specific roles these individuals played in Venezuela, it noted that Cuba has been providing military support to the Maduro regime as part of a longstanding alliance centered around the exchange of oil for security aid.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel commented that these individuals were tasked with protecting Maduro and his wife at Venezuela's request. The Cuban government described their losses as a product of direct combat against US forces or as fatalities resulting from bombing strikes on military facilities.

The official statement highlighted the bravery of the Cuban nationals, who, according to the government, fulfilled their duties with dignity under challenging circumstances.

In the aftermath of the raid, reports indicate that body counts could be significantly higher than initially reported, with figures suggesting that as many as 80 individuals may have died during the assault.

US President Donald Trump addressed the possibility of military action against Cuba in the future, asserting that such operations might not be necessary as he believed Cuba's government is in a vulnerable position. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, labeling Cuba as a troubled state.

This incident has reignited discussions regarding US relations with Cuba, particularly amidst the backdrop of similar tensions with Venezuela. The US government continues to impose restrictions and maintain an economic embargo against Cuba that has been in place since 1962, despite international calls for its end.