Local Venezuelans are reacting with a mix of emotions following the apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. While some are optimistic about a potential transition to democracy, others are uncertain about the country’s future.
Isaac Nahon, a former Venezuelan now based in Ottawa, expressed surprise that Maduro’s capture did not lead to an immediate regime change as anticipated. Following the arrest of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, Venezuela’s Supreme Court appointed Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez as the acting president.
Protests under the banner of “Hands Off Venezuela” erupted globally in opposition to the U.S. intervention, including a demonstration outside the U.S. embassy in Ottawa. Larry Wasslen, president of the Canadian Peace Congress, criticized the intervention as a violation of international law and emphasized Venezuelans’ desire for peaceful development.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney voiced support for the Venezuelan people’s right to determine their future in a peaceful, democratic manner and urged all parties to adhere to international law. In Ottawa, Venezuelans celebrated Maduro’s arrest, with some expressing cautious optimism about the future.
Despite the celebrations, concerns linger about Venezuela’s democratic transition and continued U.S. involvement. President Donald Trump pledged to oversee Venezuela until a new government is established. There are worries about potential violence if the situation escalates, with calls for respect for Venezuela’s constitution and the avoidance of further conflict.
Amidst the uncertainties, there is a sense of hope among Venezuelans for positive change, although challenges like food shortages and school closures persist. Overall, the Venezuelan community is cautiously optimistic about the prospects for a new chapter in their country’s history.