Celebrations and protests took place across the DMV area following the U.S. arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. DC News Now reported that Venezuelan expatriates gathered at the Simon Bolivar Statue to mark the end of Maduro’s 12-year rule. Emi Melean, embracing her cousin, spoke about family members affected during Maduro’s time in power.
Not all reactions to Maduro’s capture were celebratory. Hundreds gathered near the White House to voice opposition to the U.S. military intervention, According to NBC Washington. Protesters criticized the operation as interference in Venezuelan affairs and called for Venezuelan self-determination. The demonstrations followed a U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which included aerial attacks and resulted in Maduro’s arrest.
In a BBC interview, some residents expressed cautious optimism. One resident, speaking anonymously, said the U.S. operation offered a sense of relief, while others, like Jorge, questioned what will happen following Maduro’s sudden departure.
As per BBC, Maduro faces charges including drug trafficking and weapons violations, and he and his wife are required to appear in federal court in Lower Manhattan. U.S. authorities have labeled his government a “narco-terrorist” regime, which Maduro has denied. The Trump administration stated that the U.S. will oversee Venezuela’s affairs and oil reserves until new leadership is established, a position that has drawn mixed reactions from Venezuelan citizens. Some, like Dina, expressed skepticism about the administration’s statements.
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