UPDATE: The U.S. military has launched a significant operation in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro as of the early hours of January 3, 2023. This dramatic action has sent waves of jubilation through Southern California’s Venezuelan community, where businesses are flooded with customers celebrating what they describe as a long-awaited moment of freedom.
In Gardena, the owner of Pepiteria +55, Maria Rondón, reported a surge in customers ordering empanadas and celebrating the news. “We are happy, what we dreamt and longed for, for so many years, has been the liberty of Venezuela,” Rondón shared, her voice filled with emotion.
This military operation follows months of escalating tensions, including previous strikes against alleged drug trafficking boats and a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. The U.S. government confirmed that Maduro and his wife were removed from their home and are now en route to New York to face serious charges.
As the news broke, many in the Venezuelan diaspora reacted with disbelief and joy. “We started crying because it’s been many years of pain,” Rondón explained. “Finally, we can breathe.” The excitement reached a fever pitch when former President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, stating, “Our prayers were answered.”
However, not all responses in Southern California were celebratory. Activist groups swiftly organized protests across areas like Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga. Organizations such as Union del Barrio and CodePink condemned the U.S. military action, arguing it lacked congressional approval and clarity on future objectives.
Local lawmakers voiced strong opinions, with California Senator Alex Padilla calling the military action “unlawful without approval from Congress.” Senator Adam Schiff added, “Starting a war to remove Maduro further erodes America’s standing on the world stage.”
While some politicians criticized the decision, others supported it. Rep. Young Kim of Anaheim Hills praised the action against Maduro, labeling him a “brutal dictator” contributing to the drug crisis in the U.S.
In Pasadena, the atmosphere at Chamo Venezuelan Cuisine was electric, with patrons cheering and sharing their hopes for a better future. Owner Jessica Baker expressed her disbelief over the events unfolding in her homeland. “This is a very emotional time,” she stated, reflecting on the long struggle Venezuelans have faced.
Back in Laguna Beach, resident Norah Briceno echoed these sentiments, describing the atmosphere at home as jubilant yet uncertain. “Everybody was happy,” she said, although many families remain cautious as they await the next developments.
The emotional stakes are high, as many Venezuelans have family still living in the country. “We haven’t slept the whole night,” said Briceno, highlighting the collective anxiety felt by the community. Despite the uncertainty, she and others remain hopeful, feeling that they may finally see a change for their homeland.
The situation in Venezuela is still evolving, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that military operations are ongoing, with a focus on restoring order and addressing the humanitarian crisis. Trump indicated that the U.S. intends to oversee Venezuela until a “judicious” transfer of power takes place, claiming a commitment to help the Venezuelan people rebuild their economy and nation.
As celebrations continue in Southern California, the community remains watchful, eager to see how the situation unfolds and what the future holds for Venezuela. “This is a historic day for Venezuelans,” Baker asserted, emphasizing the deep emotional connection that many feel towards the events of the past few hours.
With the world watching, the implications of this military operation extend far beyond borders, resonating deeply within the hearts of Venezuelans everywhere. What happens next could reshape the future of Venezuela and its people, as hope and uncertainty dance hand in hand in this tumultuous moment.
