US Military Operation in Caracas Results in Heavy Casualties Among Soldiers

Amid rising tensions in Latin America, a US-led military operation in Caracas has reportedly led to the deaths of 47 Venezuelan troops, including nine women soldiers, as confirmed by the Venezuelan government. The Defence Ministry indicated that the death toll was revised upwards due to the conflict involving forces opposing the raid aimed at capturing President Nicolás Maduro.

The operation also resulted in the death of 32 Cuban soldiers, who were in Venezuela under military allegiance with Maduro’s administration. Cuba has honored these troops through public ceremonies, returning their remains to Havana as part of the mourning process.

Venezuelan officials reported over 112 injuries from the strike, which commenced with air assaults on military zones before US forces descended by helicopter to seize Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores. A detailed account of civilian casualties is still pending as authorities work on DNA identification.

The global response has been polarized, with significant protests erupting outside the US Embassy in Havana, where thousands gathered to denounce the Cuban losses. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the operation, labeling it an act of aggression, and affirmed his government’s commitment to steadfast negotiations with Washington.

In response to the crisis, Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced seven days of mourning and engaged in high-level discussions with CIA officials concerning economic collaborations and security matters.

This US operation has not only resulted in the capture of Maduro to face drug-related allegations but has further strained diplomatic relations, prompting diverse international appeals for peaceful dialogue and stability in the region.