By Micah Jonah
February 22, 2026
Cuban security advisers, doctors are departing Venezuela as Interim President, Delcy Rodriguez shifts her protection to Venezuelan bodyguards.
The move comes amid mounting U.S. pressure to unwind the longstanding alliance between Caracas and Havana, according to multiple sources.
The Cuban presence had been central to the survival of the Chavista government, embedding agents within Venezuela’s military and the DGCIM counterintelligence unit. Thirty-two Cubans were killed during the U.S. operation that captured former President Nicolas Maduro on January 3.
Some Cuban advisers have already been removed from sensitive posts while medical personnel and security advisers have flown back to Cuba in recent weeks. Sources say the departures are in line with Rodriguez’s directives, influenced by U.S. expectations.
Trump Administration Seeks End to Venezuela-Cuba Security Ties
Prior to the U.S. operation, thousands of Cuban doctors, nurses, sports coaches worked in Venezuela under programmes initiated by former Presidents Hugo Chavez and Maduro in exchange for Venezuelan oil. Following the operation, U.S. President Donald Trump vowed to end Cuba’s security role in Venezuela.
A White House official confirmed that Rodriguez’s interests align with Washington’s objectives, emphasized ongoing dialogue with Cuba on economic and political matters. Cuba has expressed openness to dialogue while condemning the oil blockade imposed by the U.S.
Cuban Influence Remains, although Reduced:
While some Cuban personnel remain active in Venezuela, their role is now limited. Cuban professors continue teaching at the state university for police and security forces and a few undercover agents are expected to monitor the evolving political situation. Experts say that although the Cubans did not prevent Maduro’s capture, their counterintelligence efforts were key in sustaining the Chavista government for years.
Rodriguez is handling the transition carefully, keeping Cuban forces at a distance without severing ties entirely, while consolidating her own control over power structures in Venezuela.
