CARACAS, Venezuela — Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has officially decreed seven days of national mourning to honor military personnel and civilians killed during a massive U.S. military operation that took place on Saturday, January 3, 2026.
The period of mourning serves as a tribute to those Rodríguez described as "martyrs" who died defending the nation’s sovereignty during Operation Absolute Resolve, the U.S. mission that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Honoring the "Defenders of Sovereignty"
In a televised address on state broadcaster VTV, Rodríguez expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, stating:
"I have decided to decree seven days of mourning to the honor and glory of the young people, women, and men who gave up their lives defending Venezuela and President Nicolás Maduro."
The official death toll remains fluid, but recent reports highlight the scale of the confrontation:
Venezuelan Forces: At least 24 security officers were confirmed killed during the strikes in Caracas.
Cuban Personnel: The Cuban government reported that 32 of its military and intelligence officers stationed in Venezuela also lost their lives.
Total Casualties: Estimates from international observers and the Venezuelan Attorney General suggest dozens of civilians and military personnel are among the dead, with some reports placing the total toll as high as 80.
6
A Call for Peace and Sovereign Control
Despite the presence of U.S. forces and President Trump’s recent claims that the United States would "run" the country during a transition, Rodríguez remained defiant.
Rejection of Foreign Interference: Rodríguez asserted that "the government of Venezuela is in charge in our country, and no one else," insisting that no foreign agent is governing from Miraflores Palace.
End to Harassment: She called for an immediate end to the "harassment" of the nation and urged the international community to respect Venezuela’s right to self-determination.
Status of Maduro: While Rodríguez leads as interim president—a move backed by the Supreme Court and the military—she continues to demand the release of Nicolás Maduro, whom she characterizes as a "hostage" currently facing trial in New York.
The atmosphere in Caracas remains tense but largely stable under the watchful eye of the Venezuelan military, which has signaled its continued support for Rodríguez during this period of "unprecedented aggression."
