Venezuelans Face Uncertainty Following Maduro's Capture

On January 3, 2026, Nicolás Maduro, the President of Venezuela, and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by U.S. special forces during a military operation in Venezuela. This event has sparked a complex reaction within the country, where fear and uncertainty dominate the atmosphere. While many Venezuelans in the diaspora celebrated the news, those within Venezuela remained largely silent, deterred by a climate of fear instigated by armed groups known as "colectivos" and an emergency order prohibiting support for the U.S. operation.

Residents in Venezuela describe climate of fear and uncertainty after Maduro’s fallResidents in Venezuela describe climate of fear and uncertainty after Maduro’s fallAfter Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertainty

In the aftermath of Maduro's capture, Venezuelans reported a pervasive atmosphere of fear. Lissette Gonzalez, a human rights advocate, noted that public celebrations were absent due to concerns over repression. "There were no celebrations in public of the US's seizure of Nicolás Maduro," she stated, highlighting the intimidation tactics employed by the colectivos, which have historically been used by the regime to suppress dissent. Residents have described increased police checkpoints and cellphone searches aimed at identifying any anti-government sentiments. One Caracas resident, speaking anonymously, emphasized the need for caution, advising friends to leave their cellphones at home to avoid potential repercussions.

Residents in Venezuela describe climate of fear and uncertainty after Maduro’s fall

In stark contrast, Venezuelans living abroad, particularly in the United States, Colombia, and Chile, expressed joy over Maduro's ouster. With nearly eight million Venezuelans now residing outside the country, many view this moment as a potential turning point after years of political and economic turmoil. However, there is also skepticism regarding the future. Despite the initial euphoria, many in the diaspora are concerned about the lack of a clear plan for a democratic transition in Venezuela.

After Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertainty

The political landscape remains precarious. Following Maduro's capture, Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro's vice president, was recognized by the Trump administration, raising questions about the continuity of the regime. Popular opposition leader María Machado has expressed her desire to lead a democratic transition, yet many Venezuelans doubt her ability to garner the necessary support within the country. A recent poll indicated that while over 90% of Venezuelans supported the U.S. operation, more than half believed that the U.S. was primarily interested in Venezuela's oil resources.

After Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertaintyResidents in Venezuela describe climate of fear and uncertainty after Maduro’s fall

Critics of the U.S. intervention argue that the operation violated Venezuela's sovereignty and has not provided a clear path toward democracy. Many Venezuelans express disappointment over the lack of support for a democratic transition, fearing that the situation may not improve despite the removal of Maduro. The ongoing crackdown on immigrants in the U.S. has also left many Venezuelans feeling vulnerable, as they navigate their new lives while grappling with the realities of their homeland.

After Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertainty

• “Lissette Gonzalez, who works for the human rights group Provea , told us: “There were no celebrations in public of the US's seizure of Nicolas Maduro.” — Lissette Gonzalez, Human Rights Advocate

Residents in Venezuela describe climate of fear and uncertainty after Maduro’s fall

• “We're all afraid of being denounced for something we say on the street or on WhatsApp. We are watching what we say, even with people we know.” — Anonymous Caracas Resident

Residents in Venezuela describe climate of fear and uncertainty after Maduro’s fall

• “Many of those young people wish that President Jimenez [a right-wing dictator from 1950 to 1958] were back. They identify with libertarianism. It's the lack of context and experience. Young people don’t know what the democratic experience is. I understand that, but it's concerning,” — Maria Isabel Puerto Riera, Venezuelan American Professor

After Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertainty

• “I think it would be very tough for her to be the leader. She doesn't have the support within or the respect within the country. She's a very nice woman, but she doesn't have the respect,” — Donald Trump, Former U.S. President

After Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertainty

As Venezuela navigates this tumultuous period, the future remains uncertain, with both hope and skepticism shaping the perspectives of those affected by Maduro's fall.

After Maduro's fall, Venezuelans in the US face uncertainty