U.S. Military Strikes Venezuela, Maduro Captured: Celebrations Erupt

URGENT UPDATE: The U.S. military has launched a significant operation in Caracas, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro early Saturday morning. This unprecedented move comes after months of escalating tensions and is being celebrated by many Venezuelans in Southern California, who view it as a long-awaited step towards liberation.

In the wake of the U.S. strike, local businesses owned by Venezuelan immigrants, such as Pepiteria +55 in Gardena, are bustling with activity. Owner Maria Rondón reported a surge of customers celebrating the news. “We are happy, what we dreamt and longed for has been the liberty of Venezuela,” she expressed, reflecting the joyous atmosphere among attendees ordering traditional empanadas.

The operation, which began overnight on January 3, 2024, has been confirmed by multiple official sources. Maduro, who faces federal indictment in the U.S. for allegedly running a drug cartel, was taken from his home alongside his wife, Cilia Flores. They are now en route to New York to face charges.

In contrast, local activist groups quickly organized protests across Southern California, including locations in Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga. Organizations like CodePink condemned the military action, arguing it undermines U.S. democratic principles and lacks a clear purpose.

Democratic lawmakers from Los Angeles County have expressed outrage. Senator Alex Padilla stated, “Trump’s military action in Venezuela is unlawful without approval from Congress.” Senator Adam Schiff echoed these sentiments, criticizing the escalation and emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions.

Meanwhile, support for the military action has emerged from some Republican representatives. Rep. Young Kim declared Maduro a “brutal dictator,” while Rep. Ken Calvert also backed the U.S. response.

As celebrations continue in various Venezuelan-owned restaurants, Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine in Pasadena is filled with patrons rejoicing, despite the rain. Owner Jessica Baker described the emotional atmosphere, stating, “This is a very emotional time… we’ve waited for this for 30 years.”

In a press conference, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. would “be running” Venezuela until a “judicious” transfer of power occurs. He emphasized the U.S. would take over Venezuelan oil fields to increase production and sell to other nations, including China and Russia, aiming for stability and justice for the Venezuelan people.

Venezuelans across the globe are sharing in this moment of hope. Norah Briceno, a long-time resident in Laguna Beach, expressed the mix of joy and uncertainty, saying, “Everybody was happy. There’s uncertainty of what’s going to happen next. But for now, they’re super happy.”

As families in Venezuela remain cautious, many are sheltering in place, waiting for the dust to settle after the strikes. The emotional toll is palpable, with sentiments of hope surging among those who have endured decades of hardship under Maduro’s regime.

What happens next remains unclear, but for many Venezuelans, this day will be remembered as a watershed moment—a potential turning point in their country’s tumultuous history. As they celebrate, the global community watches closely to see what unfolds in the coming days.