BREAKING NEWS: The U.S. military has just launched a dramatic operation, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and igniting celebrations across Southern California among the Venezuelan community. The operation unfolded overnight on January 3, 2024, in Caracas, marking a pivotal moment in the long-standing crisis.
Maria Rondón, owner of Pepiteria +55 in Gardena, reported a surge of customers celebrating the news, with many enjoying traditional Venezuelan empanadas. “We are happy; what we dreamt and longed for has finally happened,” she exclaimed, reflecting the joy that has swept through her community.
The U.S. military action follows months of escalating tensions, including strikes against alleged drug trafficking vessels and a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. Maduro, under federal indictment in the U.S. for drug-related charges, was taken from his home and is now heading to New York to face trial.
In the wake of the operation, Rondón shared the emotional impact on her family still in Venezuela, stating, “After so many years of pain, we couldn’t believe this day would come.” The news, confirmed by President Donald Trump, was met with tears of relief as Venezuelans celebrated a newfound hope for their country.
However, not everyone is celebrating. Local activist groups quickly organized protests in cities like Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga, denouncing the U.S. military action. Organizations such as CodePink and Union del Barrio criticized the strikes as unlawful and without a clear objective.
California lawmakers are also divided over the military action. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff condemned the move, stating it undermines congressional authority and risks international relations. Padilla emphasized the lack of a plan moving forward, while Schiff warned against escalating conflict.
Conversely, Republican representatives like Young Kim praised the operation, labeling Maduro a “brutal dictator” responsible for the influx of deadly drugs into the U.S. Representative Ken Calvert echoed her sentiments, supporting the military’s efforts to restore order.
Celebrations continued at Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine in Pasadena, where owner Jessica Baker reported being overwhelmed by the turnout despite the rainy weather. “We’ve waited for this moment for 30 years,” she said, holding back tears, “and now we can finally breathe.”
Meanwhile, Norah Briceno, a Venezuelan-born resident in Laguna Beach, expressed optimism despite uncertainty about the future. “Everybody is happy, but we worry about what’s next,” she shared. Many families in Venezuela are still sheltering in place, fearful of the aftermath.
At a news conference, President Trump stated that the U.S. would maintain a presence in Venezuela until a “judicious” transfer of power occurs, asserting control over the country’s oil fields to benefit U.S. interests. He condemned Maduro for his alleged “narco-terrorism” against American citizens and highlighted the success of previous U.S. interventions.
As celebrations and protests unfold, the world watches closely. The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, and the implications of this military action will resonate beyond its borders. Venezuelans around the globe are uniting in a collective sigh of relief, hopeful for a brighter future.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to develop.
