Cuban Government Reports 32 Nationals Killed in U.S. Airstrike on Venezuela

The Cuban government reported that 32 of its nationals were killed during a U.S. airstrike targeting Venezuela, according to BBC World. The individuals were identified as members of the Cuban armed forces and intelligence agencies providing security to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

The U.S. military operation involved air strikes against targets in Venezuela as an elite military unit advanced toward Maduro's compound, BBC World reported. Cuba declared two days of national mourning following the deaths.

According to the Cuban armed forces, the 32 Cubans "fell, after fierce resistance, in direct combat against the attackers or as a result of bombardments of installations." Cuba, a long-standing ally of Venezuela, has for years provided Maduro with his personal security detail and personnel.

While Venezuela has not confirmed the Cuban deaths or released its own casualty figures, some reports suggest a higher overall death toll, according to BBC World. The incident has raised questions about potential future U.S. actions toward Cuba.

The U.S. government has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. The situation remains fluid as further details emerge.