Venezuelans at home and in the diaspora erupted in widespread celebrations on January 3, 2026, following the announcement of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by U.S. forces during a military operation in Caracas. Crowds gathered in cities across Latin America, the United States, Europe, and beyond, singing, dancing, waving Venezuelan and American flags, and expressing relief at what many described as the end of a long-perceived dictatorship. The jubilation contrasted sharply with protests by Maduro supporters inside Venezuela, highlighting deep divisions in the nation.
The celebrations stemmed from years of hardship under Maduro's rule, which opponents blame for economic collapse, hyperinflation, widespread shortages of food and medicine, political repression, and violence. Since 2014, more than 8 million Venezuelans—about 20-25% of the population—have fled the country, creating one of the world's largest displacement crises, according to UN data and regional monitoring platforms. Most have settled in neighboring countries like Colombia (nearly 3 million) and Peru (around 1.7 million), with significant communities in the U.S., Spain, Chile, and elsewhere.
In Doral, Florida—nicknamed "Doralzuela" for its large Venezuelan population—hundreds gathered at spots like El Arepazo restaurant, honking horns, playing music, and chanting "Liberty!" Many shared stories of forced migration and hopes of returning home. "Today, justice is being served for all the Venezuelans who were forced to leave our country. We are fighters, entrepreneurs, and good people, and we want to rebuild Venezuela," one participant said.
Similar scenes unfolded in Madrid, Spain, where Venezuelans waved flags and cheered in streets. In Santiago, Chile, crowds danced and sang, with one celebrant stating: "I’ve come to celebrate because the dictatorship has fallen, Maduro’s drug trafficking has fallen. We are free and happy that the dictatorship has fallen and that we will have a free country."
In Lima, Peru, and Buenos Aires, Argentina, gatherings featured traditional songs and national anthems. Diaspora communities expressed optimism for reconstruction, though some voiced concerns about potential instability.
The capture occurred during a U.S.-led "large-scale strike" early on January 3, involving airstrikes and ground forces. President Donald Trump announced that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been seized and flown out, framing it as accountability for alleged narcoterrorism. Explosions targeted military sites, causing fires and panic in Caracas.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed indictments in New York on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation, and weapons possession, vowing the couple would face "the full wrath of American justice."
Inside Venezuela, reactions split: supporters rallied demanding Maduro's return, while others privately or publicly celebrated. The government declared an emergency, accusing the U.S. of aggression.
Venezuela holds the world's largest proven oil reserves, yet decades of mismanagement under Maduro led to GDP contraction of over 75% since 2013, mass exodus, and humanitarian crisis.
The diaspora—often skilled professionals—has contributed significantly to host economies but endured discrimination and separation from families. Celebrations reflected accumulated grievances and aspirations for democracy.
International responses varied: condemnation from Russia, Iran, Cuba; cautious statements from Europe; praise from some opposition-aligned leaders.
As Maduro heads to trial—with rewards once at $50 million—the event reshapes Venezuelan politics. Celebrations signal hope among exiles for return and renewal, amid uncertainty over transition.
This outpouring illustrates the profound impact of Maduro's rule on millions, turning his capture into a global moment of catharsis for the diaspora.
