The recent U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has drawn reactions worldwide, including in the U.S. In “Katyzuela,” Houston, where many Venezuelans live, a crowd gathered outside Mi Querencia Latin Market in Katy to show support, with dancing and celebrations reported. John Marquez, a local Venezuelan bakery worker, told KHOU that he was surprised to see the news of Maduro’s capture.
While some Venezuelan expatriates viewed the news positively, the U.S. military operation also drew criticism and plans for protests. A demonstration is scheduled for today in Houston, with organizers arguing that the operation may have motives beyond bringing Maduro to justice. A statement on AnswerCoalition.org contends that the action is aimed at controlling Venezuela’s oil and exerting influence in Latin America.
Reactions among Venezuelan expatriates varied following the news. Carmen Montiel, who helped organize the gathering in Katy, described the moment as a sense of relief. Dana Jimenez, an activist with Vente Houston, said that while full freedom in Venezuela has not yet been achieved, Maduro’s capture was a significant development, noting chants of “Free Venezuela!” observed during the gathering, according to KHOU.
The Venezuelan situation has prompted differing political reactions in Texas. Governor Greg Abbott and other conservative lawmakers expressed support for the operation, while legislators including James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett raised concerns about potential motives such as oil interests. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is running for the U.S. Senate, described the operation as “Strong work,” as reported by CHRON.
