Venezuela Mourns the Dozens Who Died in U.S. Operation

In early January 2026, a U.S. raid in Venezuela to capture President Nicolás Maduro resulted in numerous Venezuelan deaths. The nighttime operation, which involved bombings and airlifts, caused widespread destruction, including civilian homes in Catia La Mar. While U.S. officials celebrated the successful capture of Maduro and his wife, Venezuelans mourned the loss of life and faced deep uncertainty. The Venezuelan government has not released an official list of casualties, but families are grieving and burying their dead, including civilians and members of Maduro's security detail. The raid marks an escalation of U.S. dominance in Latin America under President Trump.

In early January 2026, a U.S. raid in Venezuela to capture President Nicolás Maduro resulted in dozens of deaths and widespread uncertainty. The operation, which involved bombings in areas like Catia La Mar, led to civilian casualties, including the death of 80-year-old Rosa Elena González. Maduro and his wife were captured and taken to a U.S. warship, prompting celebration from American officials. While the U.S. hailed the mission's success, Venezuelans mourned the loss of life, including members of Maduro's security circle. The Venezuelan government has not released an official list of casualties, and the event has been described as an escalation of U.S. dominance in Latin America.