Venezuela's Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino López, announced this Friday that 47 members of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) were killed on January 3 during a U.S.-led assault in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
In a broadcast aired by the state-run channel Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), Padrino López highlighted that among the deceased were nine women. He described the event as an attack against a force facing "overwhelming technology and resources," in a "disproportionate" confrontation with Venezuela, emphasizing that the fallen soldiers "sacrificed their lives" for the nation's defense.
Additionally, Padrino López recalled that his records indicated 32 Cubans also perished during the same operation. The minister mentioned that interim president Delcy Rodríguez had ordered the formation of a commission to support the families of the deceased and injured, focusing on "social and economic needs."
Furthermore, he stated that a national monument is being planned to honor the fallen soldiers, with efforts underway to determine its "optimal location."
On Thursday, Delcy Rodríguez began her annual management report speech with a minute of applause to pay tribute to the deceased. A week ago, the Venezuelan government posthumously promoted and decorated the fallen soldiers during a ceremony led by the interim leader alongside Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez.
Padrino López also mentioned a "review and adjustment" of the FANB in response to the January 3 attacks. In this context, he referenced the Ayacucho Plan, introduced by Maduro in October 2024, set to run through 2030, aimed at "strengthening military power" and ensuring respect for Venezuela and the practice of its Constitution, according to the government's explanation at the time.
The minister urged the military to maintain "spiritual strength" during these "challenging and painful times," affirming that the "military honor" and "dignity" of the armed forces remain "intact."
Key Questions about the Venezuelan Military Incident
What was the cause of the military casualties in Venezuela?
The casualties occurred during an assault led by the United States in Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
How many female soldiers were reported among the deceased?
Nine women were reported among the 47 military personnel who died during the operation.
What steps has the Venezuelan government taken to honor the fallen soldiers?
The government has planned to build a national monument to honor the fallen soldiers and has posthumously promoted and decorated them in a ceremony.