By Charles Maduka
Cuba has accused the United States of killing 32 of its nationals during a military operation in Venezuela that culminated in the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro.
The allegation was contained in an official statement by the Cuban government, broadcast on national television.
According to the statement, the deceased were members of Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior deployed in Venezuela on official assignments. Havana said the personnel were operating at the request of partner agencies.
The Cuban government described the US action as a criminal attack, stating that the personnel were killed either during direct combat with US forces or as a result of air bombardments carried out during the operation in Caracas.
Reports said the US military operation led to the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were taken from Caracas to the United States. Maduro is expected to face charges bordering on drug trafficking and terrorism before a court in New York.
In reaction to the deaths, Cuba declared two days of national mourning and announced that tributes would be organised in honour of those killed.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel, while paying tribute to the fallen personnel, described them as brave fighters who discharged their duties with dignity and heroism.
Leave a Reply