At least 24 Venezuelan security officers were killed during a U.S. military operation aimed at capturing Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, Venezuelan officials said. The deaths occurred in a raid conducted early in the week that also involved Cuban security forces.
What Happened
U.S. forces carried out a military operation in Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, to capture President Maduro, who was wanted in the United States on federal drug-related charges. Venezuelan authorities reported that 24 of their security personnel were killed in the fighting. They also said that a number of civilians died, and prosecutors are investigating the incident.
Cuba Also Reports Losses
The Cuban government confirmed that 32 of its military and police personnel stationed in Venezuela were killed during the same operation. Cuba declared two days of national mourning for the fallen officers.
Response From Venezuelan Leaders
Venezuela’s Attorney General Tarek William Saab described the deaths as potentially constituting a “war crime” and said prosecutors would investigate. The Venezuelan military posted tributes to the slain officers, calling for justice and strength.
U.S. Government Comments
Officials in Washington, including President Donald Trump, defended the operation as a law-enforcement action. U.S. leaders said their aim was to arrest Maduro on charges related to narcotics trafficking and bring him to the United States for trial.
International Reaction
The military action has drawn international attention, with some countries condemning it as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty, while others have been cautious in their response.
What’s Next
As Venezuela declares mourning for the dead, the political situation remains tense. Prosecutors will continue investigations into the deaths, and global reactions to the U.S. military operation are still developing.