Cuban security forces have begun to leave Venezuela as U.S. pressure mounts on interim President Delcy Rodriguez's government to dissolve its crucial leftist alliance in Latin America. According to sources cited by Reuters, some Cuban medical personnel and security advisors have traveled back to Cuba on flights in recent weeks. President Rodriguez has reportedly entrusted her protection to Venezuelan personal guards, moving away from the Cuban elite forces once relied upon by her predecessor Nicolas Maduro and the late Hugo Chavez.

The departure of Cuban personnel comes in the wake of a U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which culminated in the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro in early January. Former Venezuelan intelligence officials have indicated that Cuban security operatives have been removed from positions within the military intelligence's counter-espionage unit. This shakeup signifies a strategic shift in Venezuela's security landscape as it grapples with increased scrutiny and sanctions from the U.S. government.

U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to dismantle the security ties between Venezuela and Cuba, stressing that Cuba has relied heavily on oil and financial support from Venezuela for many years. This development may further escalate tensions in the region, as the U.S. continues to exert influence over Venezuela's internal affairs, potentially impacting the stability and governance of the nation as it struggles against both economic chaos and international diplomatic isolation.