Cuban security personnel and medical advisers are leaving Venezuela. This comes as Interim President Delcy Rodriguez takes control and faces growing pressure from the United States.
Unlike former presidents Nicolas Maduro and Hugo Chavez, Rodriguez relies on Venezuelan bodyguards for her personal security. Sources say several Cuban advisers have returned to Cuba or been reassigned in recent weeks.
Cuba had long maintained a strong presence in Venezuela. Its intelligence officers and security experts were embedded in the military and the DGCIM counterintelligence agency. They played a key role in maintaining the Chavista regime. Thirty-two Cuban personnel were killed during a US operation that captured Maduro on January 3, 2026.
Before the operation, thousands of Cuban doctors, nurses, and sports coaches worked in Venezuela as part of social programs started under Chavez. Venezuela provided Cuba with oil in exchange for these services.
Following the US attack, President Donald Trump vowed to end the Cuba-Venezuela security relationship. He described Cuba’s role as providing “security services” for past Venezuelan leaders. The US has also blocked Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba as part of its strategy to weaken Havana’s influence.
Some Cuban personnel remain in Venezuela. This includes military advisers, undercover intelligence agents, and professors at the state university for police and security forces, UNES. Cuban doctors continue to provide care in hospitals.
Rodriguez has maintained diplomatic contact with Cuba. She spoke with President Miguel Diaz-Canel in January. Both leaders emphasized the continued “unity and cooperation” between their countries.
Analysts say Rodriguez is taking a cautious approach. She is keeping Cuban advisers at a distance but not cutting ties completely. Experts note that Cuban counterintelligence still influences Venezuelan politics
