The Cuban government said 32 of its citizens were killed in the US raid on Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, and plunged Caracas into chaos and uncertainty.
Cuba declared two days of mourning on January 5 and 6 in honour of those killed, and said funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
“True to their responsibilities concerning security and defence, our compatriots fulfilled their duty with dignity and heroism, and fell, after fierce resistance, in direct combat against the attackers, or as a result of bombings,” the Cuban government said.
Cuba has been providing some of Mr Maduro's since he came to power and part of his security team was killed in the US military operation in “cold blood”, Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino said.
US President Donald Trump told The New York Post that “many Cubans lost their lives”, with Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirming 32 of its citizens – soldiers and Interior Ministry agents – had been killed.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Cuba’s leaders should be concerne
Continue Reading on The National UAE
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.