HAVANA – Cuba commenced solemn ceremonies on Thursday to honor 32 military personnel reportedly killed during what authorities describe as a “criminal attack” by the United States against Venezuela. The remains arrived at José Martí International Airport where an official military reception was held.
The procession traveled along Rancho Boyeros Avenue to the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces headquarters, with citizens lining the route to pay respects to the fallen combatants. Starting at 10:00 a.m., the public was permitted access to view the remains at the ministry building.
Additional commemorative events are scheduled throughout the country. On Friday morning, Havana residents will gather at the José Martí Anti-Imperialist Tribune to initiate the “March of the Fighting People,” symbolizing national solidarity. Simultaneous tribute ceremonies will occur in all provincial capitals at 9:00 a.m., followed by burials in local pantheons for fallen defenders at 4:00 p.m.
The Cuban government has declared 2026 as the “Year of the Centennial of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz,” adding historical significance to the ceremonies. Official statements honored the soldiers as heroes who fell defending Venezuela’s Bolivarian Republic, though the United States government has not officially commented on the alleged incident.
The coordinated national observances represent one of Cuba’s most significant military commemorations in recent years, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.