The fatalities, confirmed by anonymous sources familiar with the case, include members of Venezuelan and Cuban security forces, as well as civilians caught in the armed confrontation at the Maduro compound. This figure roughly matches estimates previously shared by Venezuelan officials.
“"The fact that this extremely complex and grueling mission was executed with so few injuries is a testament to the expertise of our joint fighters."
The high death toll supports the statements made by President Donald Trump, who described the operation as “effective” but “very violent.” The mission, known as Operation Absolute Resolution, was led by elite members of the Army's Delta Force, operating alongside the 75th Ranger Regiment.
Approximately half a dozen US soldiers were injured during the operation, some sustaining gunshot wounds. The Pentagon reported on Tuesday that two service members are still recovering, while five others who were injured have already returned to active duty.
Following the forced removal of Maduro, Secretary of State Marco Rubio briefed lawmakers, expressing confidence in working with Delcy Rodríguez, the current interim president of Venezuela. The Trump administration believes it holds leverage, assessing that if Rodríguez does not cooperate, Venezuela will run out of funds to pay security forces within weeks.
