The United States military has officially acknowledged that several of its elite commandos were wounded during a daring and dangerous operation in Venezuela. This admission sheds light on the significant risks undertaken by American forces in the high-stakes mission targeting the government of Nicolas Maduro.
Pentagon Confirms Casualties on Both Sides
In a significant disclosure, the Pentagon confirmed that seven U.S. service members were injured during the raid. A detailed breakdown shows that five of these soldiers have already recovered and returned to active duty. However, two personnel are still in the process of recuperation from their wounds.
The human cost of the operation extended far beyond the American injuries. U.S. intelligence assessments present a staggering figure for the opposing side. Officials estimate that dozens, potentially reaching 75 or more, Venezuelan and allied personnel lost their lives in the fierce combat that ensued. The casualties reportedly included members of Venezuelan security forces and Cuban military advisors stationed in the country. There are also reports of additional civilian casualties amid the intense fighting.
Caracas Mourns Its Fallen
The aftermath of the raid was visibly felt in Venezuela's capital. In Caracas, solemn funeral ceremonies were held to honour those killed in the assault. The scene was one of national mourning, with flag-draped coffins and grieving government officials paying their final respects to the soldiers who died defending the state. These ceremonies underscored the deep impact and the human tragedy of the military confrontation.
A High-Stakes Operation's Aftermath
This official confirmation from the Pentagon brings into sharp focus the real and grave dangers inherent in such covert, high-intensity operations. The incident highlights the complex and volatile nature of international interventions. While the elite Delta Force soldiers are trained for extreme scenarios, the injuries sustained confirm the operation met with formidable resistance. The scale of the loss on the Venezuelan side, including foreign advisors, points to a heavily defended target and a prolonged engagement. This event is likely to have substantial repercussions for diplomatic relations in the region and for future U.S. military planning.
