At least 7 U.S. service members injured in operation to capture Maduro
At least seven U.S. service members were injured during Operation Absolute Resolve, the military operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, according to NBC News.
The injuries occurred during the raid carried out on Saturday, with five service members who have already to duty and two still recovering, according to a Pentagon official cited by NBC News. One of the injured sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the legs, with the injuries described as “fairly serious.”
“They are receiving excellent medical care and are well on their way to recovery,” a Pentagon official told NBC News.
Media outlets in Venezuela, citing the Venezuelan armed forces, reported that at least 23 service members were killed during the operation. Cuban officials separately confirmed that 32 of their personnel protecting Maduro also died, bringing the confirmed death toll to at least 55.
According to The Washington Post, sources familiar with the operation estimated the total number of people killed at around 75, with figures ranging from 68 to as many as 80, including civilians.
The Washington Post reported that the raid was led by elite U.S. Army special operations forces, including Delta Force, supported by units from the 75th Ranger Regiment and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.
Helicopters launched from multiple warships off the Venezuelan coast and flew low over the water to reduce detection before entering Caracas.
The Pentagon’s top general said the mission involved more than 150 aircraft launched from 20 locations and was the result of meticulous planning, according to The Washington Post. U.S. troops descended into Maduro’s compound while other forces secured the surrounding area.
Helicopters involved in the operation came under ground fire as they approached the target, the general said, and U.S. forces responded with overwhelming force in self-defense, according to The Washington Post. One helicopter was struck but remained flyable.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
