BREAKING NEWS: The U.S. military has successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during an overnight operation in Caracas, leading to widespread celebrations among Venezuelans in Southern California today, January 3, 2024. The news brings a glimmer of hope to many who have faced years of hardship under Maduro’s regime.
At Pepiteria +55 in Gardena, owner Maria Rondon reported an influx of customers celebrating with traditional Venezuelan food, especially empanadas. “We are happy; what we dreamed of for so many years has become a reality,” Rondon expressed emotionally, reflecting the sentiments of many in the community.
The military operation marks a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in Venezuela, following months of escalating tensions that included strikes against alleged drug trafficking boats and a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. “This is a very emotional time,” Rondon said, emphasizing the long-awaited hope for freedom in her homeland.
The news has not been without controversy. Local activist groups quickly organized protests in places like Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga, condemning the military action. Organizations such as CodePink and the Community Self Defense Coalition voiced their opposition, with some local lawmakers expressing outrage over the lack of congressional approval for the strikes.
Senator Alex Padilla criticized the military action as unlawful, stating, “There’s no clear objective and no endgame.” Meanwhile, other officials, including Rep. Young Kim, voiced support, calling Maduro a “brutal dictator” responsible for the suffering of countless Americans.
In Pasadena, the restaurant Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine was also packed with jubilant patrons. Owner Jessica Baker shared her emotional journey, stating, “Everyone is celebrating. We’re very excited about what is happening; it’s the first step.” Baker, who has been part of the community for eight years, expressed her disbelief as she watched the news unfold.
Many Venezuelans in Southern California are anxiously awaiting news from family members still in Venezuela, as uncertainty looms over the future. “It’s a moment to celebrate, laugh, and cry,” Baker said. “For 30 years, we’ve waited for any president to do this, and well, this president did it.”
As news of the military operation spread, some community members gathered to share their experiences. Norah Briceno, a resident of Laguna Beach, described watching Telemundo coverage with her family, overwhelmed with emotion. “Everybody was happy,” she said, highlighting the palpable sense of hope.
The impact of this operation resonates beyond borders. Venezuelans worldwide are uniting in joy, with celebrations reported in countries like Spain and Italy. “This is so personal to us,” Baker emphasized. “For the first time in 30 years, we have a glimpse of hope.”
Despite the celebrations, fears remain about the next steps. Pilar Corff, a Venezuelan-born resident in Laguna Woods, shared her mixed feelings. “I was happy, but also concerned for my friends and family,” she said, as she recounted receiving distressing messages from home.
At a press conference, President Trump announced that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela until a “judicious” transfer of power occurs, vowing to take control of the country’s oil fields. “We want peace, liberty, and justice for the great people of Venezuela,” Trump stated, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the operation, explaining that the military action had been planned for days.
As celebrations continue, the Venezuelan community remains hopeful yet anxious about the uncertain future. “What will happen tomorrow, we don’t know,” Baker said, reflecting the mixed emotions felt by many. “But today, we’re all celebrating the capture of the man who has destroyed our country.”
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
