Tragic Incident: 32 Cubans Killed in US Military Strike in Venezuela

Thu Jan 08 2026 00:43:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent US military operation in Venezuela has resulted in the death of 32 Cuban nationals, prompting a national mourning period in Cuba. The incident has raised tensions between the US and Cuba amidst ongoing geopolitical struggles.

In a significant escalation of military conflict, the Cuban government reports that 32 of its nationals, mostly involved in supporting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, were killed during a US military operation aimed at seizing the leader. The incident has led to two days of mourning in Cuba and raised questions about US-Cuba relations and military strategies.

The Cuban government has reported the deaths of 32 of its nationals during a US operation targeting Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. These individuals, primarily members of Cuban armed forces and intelligence agencies, were engaged in what the Cuban authorities describe as 'combat actions'. In response to the tragedy, Cuba has declared two days of national mourning.

According to the Cuban military, the fatalities occurred during fierce resistance against US forces or as a consequence of bombings on military installations. For years, Cuba has been providing extensive support to Venezuela, supplying security details for Maduro and maintaining personnel throughout the Venezuelan military.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that the support was provided at Venezuela's request, highlighting the close ties between the two nations. US intelligence has reportedly tracked Maduro's movements for months before the operation, indicating extensive preparation and intelligence-gathering efforts by US forces.

Many of those killed were believed to be part of Maduro's close security detail, who were present during the US strikes. The total death toll from the operation stands at approximately 80, based on information from an unnamed Venezuelan official. The Cuban government praised its compatriots' bravery, emphasizing their commitment to duty and heroism under fire.

The incident has sparked speculation about future US actions towards Cuba, especially following comments from President Donald Trump, suggesting military intervention would not be necessary as he believes Cuba is on the verge of collapse. This has raised alarms within the Cuban government amid ongoing policy pressures from the US, including stringent economic sanctions.