Thousands of Venezuelans living abroad took to the streets on Saturday to celebrate the ouster of President Nicolás Maduro, who was captured by US forces early in the morning and is set to face drug trafficking charges in New York. The demonstrations reflected relief and hope among those who fled economic collapse and political repression under Maduro’s rule.
In Santiago, Chile, crowds waved Venezuelan flags and donned the national colors of yellow, blue, and red. Street vendor Yurimar Rojas told AFP, “At last we’re going to have a free country,” while 61-year-old Yasmery Gallardo, planning to return home after eight years in Chile, said, “I’m already planning my trip…I can’t wait to be back in my country!”
Thousands more gathered in Miami, singing, waving flags, and shouting messages of gratitude toward former US President Donald Trump. “Today, January 3rd, the dreams of Venezuelans abroad came true,” said Ana Gonzalez, while Anabela Ramos added, “I’ve been waiting 27 years for this moment…now it’s finally happened!”
In Madrid, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado addressed supporters via loudspeaker, declaring, “Venezuela will be free!” The announcement drew tears and cheers from the crowd, reflecting the emotional weight of years of hardship.
Colombia, which hosts nearly three million Venezuelans, also saw jubilant celebrations. Hairdresser Kevin Zambrano in Bogota said, “The first step is done…thanks to Donald Trump for helping Venezuela,” while security guard Yeiner Benitez recalled the suffering that forced him to leave in 2022, calling the moment “extraordinary; it’s divine justice.”
Despite the widespread celebrations, some Venezuelans opposed what they see as foreign intervention. In Mexico City, protesters gathered outside the US embassy, waving banners reading “No to war” and urging compatriots to resist foreign control over the country’s resources, according to protest leader Mario Benitez.
The future of Venezuela remains uncertain. President Donald Trump said the US will “run” the country until a power transfer is possible, while Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez insisted Maduro remains the nation’s “only president” and vowed to defend the government.
