Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR), described the deaths of several Cuban military personnel in Venezuela as a "historic moment," asserting that they were only equipped with light weapons during the clashes.
"This is a historic moment for our nation. We have reasons to be very proud of them. It is a time for unity. Our homeland continues to face threats," stated the former spy during a farewell ceremony held in Havana for the soldiers who died in Venezuela.
Hernández emphasized that the Cuban soldiers were not part of an artillery unit. They were on a specific mission and "fought until their ammunition ran out," defending "Nicolás Maduro's life to the last consequence." This refers to the former Venezuelan president, who was detained by U.S. forces following an operation ordered by Donald Trump on January 3.
The CDR leader expressed being moved by the number of people who came to pay tribute to the deceased, whom the regime presented as "internationalist heroes."
Hernández's statements confirm the direct involvement of Cuban military forces in recent events in Venezuela, a fact that Havana had previously denied.
The official narrative seeks to justify the presence of Cuban troops in the South American country under the guise of "revolutionary solidarity."
Meanwhile, many Cubans on social media are questioning the government's decision to send troops to a foreign conflict amidst Cuba's severe economic and social crisis.
Details on Cuban Military Involvement in Venezuela
What was the specific mission of the Cuban soldiers in Venezuela?
The Cuban soldiers were reportedly on a mission to defend Nicolás Maduro's life, fighting until their ammunition was exhausted.
How did the Cuban government justify the presence of its troops in Venezuela?
The official explanation for Cuban troops in Venezuela was framed as "revolutionary solidarity," despite widespread questioning from Cubans about involvement in foreign conflicts.
What has been the public reaction in Cuba to the deployment of troops to Venezuela?
Many Cubans have taken to social media to challenge the decision to send troops abroad, especially during a time of significant economic and social turmoil within Cuba.