In a dramatic escalation of tensions, 32 Cuban soldiers have been killed during a United States-led operation in Venezuela aimed at arresting President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, the Venezuelan government confirmed on Sunday, 4 January.
The Havana government announced that in memory of the fallen soldiers, a two-day period of national mourning will be observed on 5 and 6 January. During this time, the national flag will fly at half-mast, and the authorities will subsequently provide details regarding funeral arrangements and burials.
According to the state-run news agency Prensa Latina, the deceased Cuban personnel were operating in Venezuela at the request of its government, serving alongside Venezuelan military forces. The report further states that the soldiers were killed either in direct combat with the attackers or in bombings targeting military installations. Venezuelan sources emphasised that the soldiers put up “fierce resistance” before losing their lives.
Cuba has long been a close ally of Venezuela, providing military and police support for decades, and its involvement in the country’s security apparatus has been widely documented.
Following the operation, President Maduro and his wife were reportedly taken to New York, where they face charges related to drug trafficking. The 63-year-old Venezuelan leader is expected to appear today in the Federal Court in Manhattan, although he has previously denied all allegations.
The release of images showing Maduro blindfolded and handcuffed by US forces has provoked widespread outrage across Venezuela. Speaking on state television, Defence Minister General Vladimir Padrino stated that the US assault had resulted in the “brutal killing” of a large number of military personnel, civilians, and members of Maduro’s security detail. He confirmed that the Venezuelan armed forces had been placed on the highest state of alert to safeguard national sovereignty.
The incident represents a severe blow to US-Venezuelan relations and raises concerns of further escalation in the region, with both domestic and international repercussions anticipated in the coming days.
Key Details of the Incident:
| Date of Report | Location | Fatalities | Target of Operation | Current Status of Maduro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 January 2026 | Venezuela | 32 Cuban soldiers | President Nicolás Maduro & wife | Extradited to New York, facing trial |