CARACAS: Venezuela’s interior minister Diosdado Cabello announced that approximately 100 people have died following the U.S. military attack that resulted in the ousting of President Nicolás Maduro over the weekend. This figure marks the first comprehensive death toll from the Venezuelan government following the operation that culminated in Maduro's capture.

Prior to Cabello's statement, official casualties had been unclear. The Venezuelan army had released a report indicating that 23 soldiers had been killed, but specifics regarding the attacks on Maduro's security detail remained scarce. Reports suggest that many in Maduro's security team were murdered “in cold blood,” a claim that adds further tension to an already volatile situation.

In an additional revelation, Cabello reported that the U.S. operation claimed the lives of 32 members of Cuba's military and intelligence services, though details have varied from other sources, highlighting the chaotic information landscape surrounding the incident. As part of the fallout, both Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are reportedly receiving medical treatment in U.S. custody; Flores has sustained a head injury, while Maduro is nursing a leg injury.

Echoing sentiments of loss, Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodríguez declared a week of national mourning to honor the sacrifices made by military personnel during the operation. Underlining the emotional impact of these events, Cabello praised Rodríguez's leadership, indicating that her resolve during this crisis may aid the Venezuelan populace as they navigate the aftermath of this military action.

The international community watches closely as implications of U.S. involvement in Venezuelan politics unfold, adding pressure on a nation already grappling with internal strife and humanitarian issues. The significant loss of life emphasizes the stakes involved, raising questions about the road ahead for Venezuela.