In the wake of a U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the Cuban government assured on Saturday that its healthcare personnel stationed in Venezuela are secure. This development comes amid heightened regional tensions.
José Ángel Portal Miranda, the Cuban Minister of Public Health, stated on his X account that after learning about the U.S. military action, Cuban authorities have maintained "constant communication" with the leadership of the medical mission in Venezuela. He emphasized that their members are "safe."
Portal condemned the move, labeling it a "direct assault on Venezuelan peace and sovereignty." His statement echoed the Cuban regime's official stance regarding the detention of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are currently in U.S. custody and facing federal narcotics charges in New York.
The statement followed President Donald Trump's comments in an interview with The New York Post, where he suggested that "many Cubans" may have died trying to protect Maduro, although he admitted he did not know the exact number of casualties or specify if they were military personnel, advisors, or security staff sent from Cuba.
So far, the Cuban government has neither confirmed nor denied these claims.
The minister's remarks aim to convey a sense of control and normalcy amid growing concern among families of Cubans deployed on international missions. This concern has been heightened by Trump's allegations of direct involvement by Cuban citizens in defending the Venezuelan regime.
This issue unfolds within a context of significant political confrontation, with high-ranking Cuban officials, including leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, denouncing the U.S. operation as "state terrorism" and reiterating their unwavering support for the Chavista government.
Meanwhile, Washington maintains that the operation was not intended as a formal regime change, despite criticisms from Democratic lawmakers in Congress.
Key Questions About Cuban and U.S. Involvement in Venezuela
What was the outcome of the U.S. military operation in Venezuela?
The operation resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are now in U.S. custody facing federal narcotics charges.
How has Cuba responded to the capture of Maduro?
Cuba has condemned the U.S. military action as a direct attack on Venezuelan sovereignty and has reiterated its support for the Chavista regime.
Are Cuban healthcare workers in Venezuela safe?
According to Cuban officials, their healthcare workers in Venezuela remain safe and are in constant contact with Cuban authorities.