Cuban security forces exit Venezuela as US pressure mounts

Thousands of Cuban security personnel have begun leaving Caracas after nearly two decades in Venezuela, as Washington ramps up efforts to dismantle the long standing alliance between the two leftist governments.

US estimates suggest up to 25,000 Cuban soldiers, intelligence agents and bodyguards had been stationed in Venezuela under a security pact dating back to the era of former president Hugo Chávez. The arrangement helped shield the socialist government from internal dissent.

The withdrawal follows the capture of former president Nicolás Maduro in a US operation on 3 January, during which 32 Cuban personnel were reportedly killed. Interim leader Delcy Rodríguez is now said to be relying on Venezuelan bodyguards.

Cuba recently acknowledged the presence of combat forces in Venezuela after years of denials. It remains unclear whether the pullout was ordered by Havana or initiated on the ground. Some advisers and intelligence operatives are believed to remain.

The alliance had also seen thousands of Cuban medical and sports professionals deployed to oil rich Venezuela in exchange for subsidised crude.

The shift comes amid increasing pressure from Donald Trump’s administration, which has tightened economic measures against both Caracas and Havana in a bid to weaken their strategic ties.

via Reuters