UPDATE: In a stunning overnight operation, the U.S. military captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, triggering jubilant celebrations among the Venezuelan community in Southern California. Business owners and residents expressed a mix of relief and joy as they celebrated what they view as a pivotal moment for their homeland.
At Pepiteria +55 in Gardena, owner Maria Rondón reported a surge in customers enthusiastically ordering empanadas. “We are happy; what we dreamt and longed for has finally come true,” she shared. The festive atmosphere echoed throughout the restaurant as patrons celebrated the news following the U.S. military’s large-scale operation in Caracas that began early on January 3, 2024.
In a decisive strike, the U.S. targeted Maduro, who has long been under federal indictment for alleged drug trafficking. Eyewitness reports described bombings that shook the Venezuelan capital, leading to a wave of emotions among expatriates. “After years of pain, we can finally see a glimmer of hope,” Rondón added, reflecting the sentiments of many.
However, the celebration was not universal. Local activist groups quickly organized protests in cities like Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga, condemning the military action. Organizations like Union del Barrio and CodePink were vocal against the U.S. intervention, emphasizing concerns over the legality and the potential consequences of such actions.
In Congress, reactions varied sharply. California Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff condemned the military action as unlawful without congressional approval, asserting that it escalates tensions rather than resolves them. “There’s no clear objective or endgame,” Padilla stated.
Conversely, Rep. Young Kim of Anaheim Hills expressed support, labeling Maduro a “brutal dictator” responsible for the suffering of countless Americans due to drug trafficking. The contrasting responses underscore the polarized views on U.S. foreign policy in Venezuela.
As the news broke, restaurants like Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine in Pasadena were filled to capacity, with owner Jessica Baker sharing her emotional journey. “We’ve waited for 30 years for this moment,” she said, visibly moved. “Today we celebrate a significant step toward freedom.”
Many community members are still anxious about family back in Venezuela, where uncertainty looms. Rondón noted that her relatives remain fearful but are also celebrating from afar. “They are still afraid to leave their homes,” she said, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by those living under Maduro’s regime.
As celebrations continued, attention turned to the future. President Donald Trump announced plans for the U.S. to take control of Venezuela’s oil resources, a move that has drawn mixed reactions. “We want peace, liberty, and justice for the great people of Venezuela,” Trump stated at a news conference, asserting that the U.S. will remain involved until a peaceful transfer of power occurs.
Venezuelans across the globe, from Spain to Italy, echoed similar sentiments of hope and relief. “We finally have a glimpse of hope after decades of suffering,” Baker remarked, emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment.
As the dust settles from the operation, many in Southern California are left wondering what comes next for their homeland and how this military intervention will reshape the future of Venezuela. “We’re all waiting to see what happens,” Rondón said, reflecting a collective hope for a brighter tomorrow.
With the military operation still fresh and emotions running high, the ongoing response from both supporters and critics will shape the narrative in the coming days. The world watches closely as Venezuelans pray for stability and the chance to rebuild their nation.
