Venezuelans Celebrate After Reports of Maduro’s Arrest by the United States
By TUW
Scenes of celebration erupted in several countries on Saturday after reports emerged that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had been arrested by the United States government and removed from Venezuela to face charges abroad.
According to the reports, Maduro was captured during a US-led military operation in Caracas and later indicted in the United States on allegations related to drug trafficking and illegal weapons activities. His wife, Cilia Flores, was also reportedly taken into custody during the operation.
The news triggered widespread reactions among Venezuelans both inside the country and across the global diaspora. Many gathered in public spaces, waving Venezuelan and US flags, singing, dancing, and chanting messages of freedom. Celebrations were reported in parts of Latin America, the United States, and Europe.
For millions of Venezuelans, the moment represents hope after years of hardship. Venezuela has faced prolonged economic collapse marked by hyperinflation, food and medicine shortages, rising crime, and political instability. The United Nations estimates that more than eight million Venezuelans have fled the country since 2014, making it one of the largest migration crises in the world.
Despite holding the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, Venezuela’s economy deteriorated sharply under Maduro’s leadership, deepening poverty and forcing families to leave in search of safety and opportunity.
In Santiago, Chile, one Venezuelan celebrant described the moment as historic. “We are celebrating because the dictatorship has fallen. We feel free and happy. This is the beginning of a new Venezuela,” the individual said.
In Doral, Florida home to a large Venezuelan community another citizen said the reported arrest marked long-awaited justice. “This is for all of us who were forced to leave our country. We want to return home and help rebuild Venezuela,” the person said.
Reports say the operation took place in the early hours of Saturday, with residents in Caracas reporting explosions, low-flying aircraft, and smoke in parts of the capital as events unfolded.
US President Donald Trump later confirmed the operation on social media, describing it as a “brilliant and well-planned mission” carried out by elite forces. When questioned about congressional approval, Trump said the matter would be addressed at a later stage.
