UPDATE: Major celebrations erupted in Southern California as news broke that the U.S. military launched a successful operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro early Saturday morning, January 3, 2024. The action comes after months of escalating tensions, including U.S. strikes against alleged drug boats from Venezuela and a blockade on sanctioned oil tankers.
At Pepiteria +55 in Gardena, owner Maria Rondón reported a surge of customers ordering empanadas, with many celebrating the long-awaited news. “We are happy; what we dreamt for so many years has become a reality,” she said, expressing the overwhelming emotion shared among the Venezuelan community.
The military operation, confirmed by President Donald Trump, involved strikes in Caracas where Maduro and his wife were taken into custody. Trump stated, “The United States will be running Venezuela indefinitely until a judicious transfer of power can occur,” adding that U.S. forces would take over the country’s oil fields.
In the wake of the operation, reactions varied widely. While many Venezuelans in California celebrated, local activist groups swiftly organized protests against the U.S. military action. Organizations such as Union del Barrio and CodePink condemned the strikes, raising concerns about legality and potential repercussions.
California lawmakers expressed mixed reactions. Senator Alex Padilla condemned the military action as unlawful without congressional approval, while Representative Young Kim voiced support, calling Maduro “a brutal dictator” responsible for flooding the U.S. with drugs.
In Pasadena, Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine overflowed with jubilant customers. Owner Jessica Baker noted, “We’ve laughed, we’ve cried… this is a moment we’ve been waiting for for 30 years.” She emphasized the global nature of the celebrations, saying, “Venezuelans everywhere are feeling this relief.”
However, not all were in a celebratory mood. Pilar Corff, a Venezuelan-born resident, expressed concern for family members still in Caracas. “They want to celebrate, but they’re scared,” she said, reflecting the ongoing uncertainty as the situation unfolds.
As the dust settles, Venezuelans in the U.S. remain hopeful for change. Rondón stated, “We hope they rebuild Venezuela to how it used to be.” Baker echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the emotional impact is profound, transcending politics. “This is about the hurt we’ve carried for 30 years. Today, we can finally take a breath.”
With the U.S. military now actively involved in Venezuela, the next steps remain uncertain. Observers are watching closely as Trump’s administration has committed to overseeing Venezuela’s future, raising questions about international relations and the potential for further conflict.
As the celebrations continue in Southern California, the broader implications of this military action will undoubtedly shape the discourse around U.S.-Venezuelan relations in the months to come.
