In a powerful response to a devastating military incursion, Venezuela's National Assembly has formally honored the victims of a recent United States attack. The legislative body passed a resolution on Thursday, January 8, 2026, paying tribute to approximately 100 individuals who lost their lives during the assault last weekend.
Assembly Condemns "Barbaric" Strike, Honors Fallen Patriots
The resolution was introduced by ruling-party lawmaker Blanca Eekhout, who described the victims as "patriots." She stated that the tribute aimed to preserve their memory for the nation. The approved measure includes plans to establish a memorial at the site of the strike and to create a special commission tasked with supporting the families of those killed.
This parliamentary action followed an official announcement from the Interior Ministry on Wednesday, which provided the first detailed casualty figures. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello confirmed the attack resulted in 100 fatalities. He also disclosed that President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, sustained injuries during the raid before being captured.
Cabello's Televised Condemnation and Details of the Raid
In a strong address on state television, Minister Cabello paid homage to President Maduro, the First Lady, and all those who died. He vehemently condemned the U.S. military operation, labeling it as "barbaric and despicable." Cabello asserted that the attack caused significant harm to many innocent people, describing the actions as inhuman and a truth that could not be hidden from the world.
The attack, which occurred on Saturday, targeted several locations across Venezuela, including the capital city of Caracas. Venezuelan authorities reported that the strikes killed both Venezuelan and Cuban military personnel stationed within the country. The operation culminated in the capture of President Maduro and First Lady Flores, who were subsequently flown to New York.
Public Protest and International Calls for Sovereignty
Parallel to the legislative proceedings, young people took to the streets of Caracas on Thursday to demonstrate. Protesters called on the U.S. government to release the detained Venezuelan president and his wife, showcasing public solidarity with the nation's leadership.
Within the Assembly, lawmakers used the session to urge foreign governments and parliaments worldwide to reject the use of force. They emphasized that the international community has a duty to defend the principles of international law and national sovereignty, arguing that the military action set a dangerous precedent.
The events mark a severe escalation in tensions between Venezuela and the United States, plunging the region into a deep political and humanitarian crisis. The Venezuelan government's dual approach—honoring its dead while mobilizing diplomatic and public pressure—highlights its strategy to confront what it calls an unlawful act of aggression.
