Maduro’s Capture: Venezuela’s Hope, Fear & Anger 🇻🇪

The arrest of Nicolás Maduro following a U.S. attack on Venezuela on January 3 prompted a range of reactions, from celebration to deep concern, among Venezuelans both within the country and across its diaspora.

Reactions in Madrid

In Madrid, many Venezuelan migrants celebrated what they saw as a turning point. Hundreds gathered in the Puerta del Sol square, chanting slogans such as y ya cayó (“it fell”) and se fue (“he’s gone”), and dancing under a Christmas tree. One woman dressed as former U.S. President Donald Trump handed out fake dollar bills.

A 26-year-old delivery rider said he partied until the early hours of the morning, stating, “They finally captured that dictator.”

Cautious Reactions and Concerns

However, not all Venezuelans shared the celebratory mood. Some expressed caution and fear about the potential consequences. Araceli, a Venezuelan woman in Madrid, said she didn’t feel comfortable joining the celebrations, expressing sadness and concern for her family’s safety. Guillermo, a Venezuelan man living in Chicago, described feeling “confused,” happy about Maduro’s removal but scared of the repercussions.

Many Venezuelan migrants want to return home, but are concerned about how Venezuela’s heavily militarised regime will respond to the U.S. attack. Since Maduro’s capture, security forces and colectivos have patrolled the streets of Caracas.

Reaction Inside Venezuela

Inside Venezuela, reactions were mixed. Ernesto, a business owner in Barquisimeto, described “a lot of anticipation and uncertainty,” with some joy but little public celebration due to fears of robbery and shortages. Luis, from Valencia, had to leave family WhatsApp groups to avoid political arguments.

Some Venezuelans expressed anger at what they perceive as naked imperialism from the U.S., including those who did not support the Bolivarian Revolution. Jaime, a resident of Caracas, expressed skepticism about U.S. motives, fearing the loss of Venezuelan sovereignty over its oil resources. Valentina, a retired academic in Valencia, expressed a sense of helplessness.

The situation remains marked by hope, fear, and uncertainty about the future for Venezuelans both at home and abroad.