Wed Jan 07 01:39:45 UTC 2026: # Venezuela Declares Mourning Period After U.S. Involvement in Maduro Ouster

The Story: Following the ousting of Nicolas Maduro as President of Venezuela, interim leader Delcy Rodriguez declared a week of mourning starting January 6, 2026, to honor those who died defending Venezuela. The announcement comes after a U.S. assault that resulted in casualties, including Venezuelan and Cuban military personnel. While details remain limited, both Cuba and Venezuela reported 55 military deaths. Venezuela’s attorney general also mentioned “dozens” of civilian and military deaths, without providing exact figures.

Key Points:

  • Interim President Delcy Rodriguez declared seven days of mourning in Venezuela.
  • The mourning period is in honor of those killed defending Venezuela and President Nicolas Maduro.
  • The deaths resulted from a U.S. assault.
  • Cuba and Venezuela reported a combined loss of 55 military personnel.
  • Venezuela’s attorney general reported “dozens” of civilian and military deaths.

Critical Analysis:
The historical context reveals a flurry of activity surrounding Venezuela in the days leading up to this announcement. The fact-checking of Trump’s promised US oil company investment, the hiring of a new ex-Central Bank boss to lead the economy, and a statement from the new Venezuelan leader that no foreign power is running the country shows a nation in extreme turmoil. The Saudi-led coalition strikes on Yemen is a less direct but relevant connection. A change of power in one part of the world means opportunity elsewhere.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. played a direct role in the removal of Nicolas Maduro from power.
  • The ousting of Maduro has resulted in significant loss of life, causing political instability in Venezuela.
  • The new Venezuelan leadership is attempting to project an image of independence from foreign influence.
  • Cuba’s involvement, evidenced by the loss of Cuban military personnel, suggests ongoing regional alliances and geopolitical complexities.
  • The announcement of mourning shows Rodriguez is not only trying to rally support against the US, but to cement her position.

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