Cuba has begun withdrawing its security advisers and doctors from Venezuela following U.S. military actions that resulted in the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in early January. The decision comes as Venezuela's interim leader faces U.S. pressure to end ties with Cuba, aiming to further isolate the island nation.
Cuba's withdrawal of personnel from Venezuela follows a U.S. attack in early January 2026 that led to the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Reuters reports that the move stems from increasing U.S. pressure on Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, to sever ties with Cuba as the Trump administration works to further isolate the island and topple its government.
At least 32 Cuban officers were killed in the U.S. attack last month. These officers were part of Maduro's security detail. The incident is part of broader U.S. military operations in the region, including strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific that have drawn widespread condemnation.
This development marks a notable shift in the long-standing alliance between Cuba and Venezuela, which dates back to the era of Hugo Chávez. The pullback involves both security advisers and doctors who have supported Venezuela for years. Details on the total number of personnel affected or the full evacuation timeline have not been specified.