Delcy Rodríguez, designated “acting president” of Venezuela, announced a seven-day mourning period on Tuesday for military personnel who lost their lives during the January 3 capture of deposed leader Nicolás Maduro.
During a visit to the José Félix Rivas socialist commune in Caracas, Rodríguez detailed the decree, as reported by Telesur, which is known for its pro-government stance.
“We have made the decision to honor the young men and women who died defending Venezuela and President Nicolás Maduro,” she said. “Their sacrifice deserves our gratitude.” She expressed deep emotion over the images of fallen soldiers, describing how they pierced her soul, adding that they gave their lives for the nation’s highest values.
As of now, the government has not disclosed the total number of casualties or damages resulting from the U.S. law enforcement operation in Caracas that led to Maduro’s capture along with his wife, Cilia Flores.
Reports indicate that at least 24 Venezuelan soldiers and 32 Cuban military personnel lost their lives during the operation, as confirmed by Cuba’s communist government. This revelation underscores the long-standing presence of Cuban agents in Venezuela, assisting the socialist regime in maintaining power.
Rodríguez, who was sworn in as “acting president” on January 26, 2018, has held various key roles within Maduro’s administration, including those overseeing the economy and foreign affairs. Before Maduro’s arrest, she also served as his vice president and oil minister.
Meanwhile, Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab stated that “dozens” of government officials and civilians were reportedly killed while Maduro was detained. He announced an investigation into these deaths as potential “war crimes,” though he did not specify whether this estimate referred solely to Venezuelan nationals.
