Venezuela Holds Mass Funeral for Soldiers Killed in U.S. Operation Targeting Former President Nicolás Maduro

Venezuelan authorities conducted a mass funeral for soldiers killed in a U.S. operation aimed at capturing former President Nicolás Maduro, according to government and military statements.

Men carried Venezuela flag-draped caskets past uniformed officers during a ceremony at a state-owned graveyard in a low-income neighborhood, witnesses and media reported.

Armed National Guard members patrolled burial areas as families completed paperwork for the deceased before the ceremony, creating a heavily guarded and solemn atmosphere.

Venezuela's military said at least 24 Venezuelan security officers died during the U.S. operation; Cuba declared two days of mourning after 32 military and police fatalities.

Associated Press reporter Megan Janetsky contributed reporting from Mexico City; Venezuelan officials staged a gunfire salute during the funeral to honor the fallen soldiers.