Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac has taken to social media to express his thoughts on the recent confirmation of the deaths of 32 Cuban soldiers during a U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which ended with the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
"I was working and just saw the news. 32 deaths. How do I process that they died defending someone who trampled over their bodies to get here smiling in the U.S. wishing a happy new year and good night?" Toirac posted on his Facebook account.
The message came after the Cuban regime released the identities of the Cuban soldiers who died in the operation, officially confirming the presence of Cuban troops in Venezuelan territory. According to official reports, the deceased were part of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior, carrying out "missions at the request of Venezuelan counterparts."
Official Shift in Cuban Government's Stance
This acknowledgment by the Cuban regime marks a significant departure from its long-standing denial of Cuban military personnel being stationed in Venezuela. The official revelation included the names of the deceased and announced a national mourning period of two days, affirming what the government had long refuted.
In response to Toirac's post, actor Luis Alberto García expressed his support, commenting: "With anger and absolute disbelief. I suggest that's how we process it."
Public Reactions and Toirac's Firm Stance
Among the responses, some users defended the military operation in Venezuela and criticized Toirac's standpoint. The comedian replied, "One thing has nothing to do with the other. I still think the same about both matters: Maduro is a dictator, and a military operation on another country is illegal."
When accused of contradiction by a user, Toirac retorted, "I criticize the invasion again and reiterate that Maduro is cynical and shameless. If you see a contradiction, that's your problem."
Consistent Opposition to Military Invasions
Days prior, after Maduro's capture, Toirac had posted another message expressing his disapproval of the U.S. invasion, while not refraining from condemning the Chavista leader. He wrote, "No. I do not applaud any invasion. Not in Ukraine, not in Venezuela. None. People pay for politicians' ideals (interests). Civilians and young people become cannon fodder."
With his subsequent message, the well-known Cuban comedian once again highlighted the human toll of the Venezuelan crisis and Cuba's involvement in the conflict, following the official confirmation of Cuban military deaths in Caracas.
Understanding the Impact of Cuban Military Losses in Venezuela
Why is the Cuban regime's acknowledgment of military personnel in Venezuela significant?
The acknowledgment marks a shift from the Cuban government's previous stance, which consistently denied the presence of its troops in Venezuela. This admission confirms longstanding suspicions and contradicts years of official denial.
How did Ulises Toirac respond to criticisms of his stance?
Toirac maintained his position, stating that his criticism of the military operation and Maduro's leadership are separate issues. He emphasized that he sees no contradiction in opposing both the invasion and Maduro's dictatorship.
What was Toirac's message about military invasions?
Toirac conveyed a consistent message against military invasions, stating that they result in civilians and young people suffering for the political interests of leaders. He opposed both the invasion of Ukraine and Venezuela.