UPDATE: Major developments are unfolding as the U.S. military executed a large-scale operation in Caracas, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro overnight on January 3, 2025. This bold action has sparked a wave of celebrations among Venezuelans in Southern California, who are expressing immense joy and relief at the news.
At Pepiteria +55 in Gardena, owner Maria Rondón reported a bustling crowd, with many patrons ordering empanadas to celebrate the breaking news. “We are happy; what we dreamt and longed for for so many years has become a reality,” Rondón expressed, reflecting the emotional weight of the moment.
The military operation followed months of heightened tensions, including strikes against alleged drug traffickers and a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. The operation, confirmed by President Donald Trump, aims to dismantle what he termed a “campaign of deadly narco-terrorism” orchestrated by Maduro and his regime.
In response to the military action, many Venezuelans are expressing a mix of joy and hope. “We’ve laughed, we’ve cried. We’re very excited about what is happening; it’s the first step,” said Jessica Baker, owner of Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine in Pasadena. The restaurant saw a full house as members of the community gathered to share in the moment.
However, not all reactions have been celebratory. Activist groups in Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga organized protests against the U.S. intervention, condemning the military action as unlawful. California’s congressional delegation, including Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, criticized the lack of congressional notification and raised concerns over the implications of such military engagements.
While celebrations surged in the streets, many Venezuelans in the U.S. are also worried for their loved ones back home. Rondón noted that most of her family still resides in Venezuela, where fear and uncertainty loom amidst the chaos. “We hope that they rebuild Venezuela to how it used to be,” she added.
The emotional impact of the military action rippled through the community. Norah Briceno, a Laguna Beach resident, shared her experience of watching the news with her family. “Everybody was happy. There’s uncertainty of what’s going to happen next. But for now, they are super happy,” she reported.
At a press conference, President Trump outlined the U.S.’s plans to oversee Venezuela until a stable government can be established, emphasizing the importance of returning peace and justice to the Venezuelan people. He announced that the U.S. would also take control of the country’s oil fields, a move aimed at increasing production and facilitating sales to international buyers.
As the day unfolds, the celebrations continue in Southern California, with many Venezuelans expressing hope for a brighter future. The historic impact of these events is palpable, and many are eager to see how the situation evolves in Venezuela.
NEXT: All eyes are on the U.S. government’s next steps following this unprecedented military action. Will the situation stabilize, or will further unrest ensue? As updates continue to pour in, the Venezuelan community remains vigilant and hopeful for a new dawn.
