HAVANA – In a striking admission, the Cuban government confirmed on Sunday that 32 of its military officers were killed during a U.S. military operation in Venezuela over the weekend.

This revelation was made via a broadcast on Cuban state television, explaining that the officers were part of a mission conducted at the behest of Venezuela’s government. The precise nature of their involvement remains unspecified, although Cuba has been a steadfast supporter of Venezuela, frequently deploying its military and police to assist in various operations.

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the incident while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. “A significant number of Cubans lost their lives yesterday,” he remarked, noting the absence of American casualties. “There was substantial loss of life on their side, none on ours.”

The operation, which took place on Saturday, resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. They are to face charges related to an alleged narco-terrorism conspiracy.

In response to the tragic loss of its officers, the Cuban government has declared a two-day period of mourning.

Cuba’s government announced two days of mourning for the Cuban officers who were killed.

“Faithful to their responsibilities for security and defense, our compatriots fulfilled their duty with dignity and heroism and fell after fierce resistance in direct combat against the attackers or as a result of the bombings of the facilities,” the official statement added.