Protests Erupt in Venezuela After U.S. Removes Maduro, Defying White House Claims
CARACAS — January 5, 2026 — Large protests have erupted across Venezuela following the United States’ military operation that removed President Nicolás Maduro from power, underscoring deep divisions over the intervention and its aftermath.
On January 3, U.S. forces carried out strikes and a coordinated raid that led to the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. President Donald Trump announced afterward that the United States was now “in charge” of Venezuela during what he described as a temporary transition period. The administration has framed the operation as a move against alleged narcotrafficking and corruption tied to Maduro’s government.
Venezuela’s Defense Ministry said the strikes caused casualties among security forces and civilians, though independent casualty figures have not been confirmed. Venezuelan officials denounced the action as a violation of sovereignty and international law.
Since the operation, thousands of demonstrators have filled streets in Caracas and other major cities, chanting against U.S. involvement and calling for Maduro’s release. Videos circulating online show large crowds waving Venezuelan flags, blocking traffic, and rallying near government buildings. Some protesters who had previously opposed Maduro have also joined demonstrations condemning foreign intervention.
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In a statement, senior government figures warned Venezuela would resist what they described as an attempt to turn the country into a U.S. protectorate. “Venezuela will not be a colony again,” one official said during a televised address.
Protests have also spread internationally, with rallies reported in several U.S. cities, including Washington, New York, Chicago, and Houston, as well as in parts of Europe, Canada, Australia, and Latin America. Demonstrators have criticized the use of military force and raised concerns about escalation and precedent.
Reactions within the Venezuelan diaspora have been mixed. Some exiles have celebrated Maduro’s removal as the end of an authoritarian regime, while others say the method used has united Venezuelans against outside control.
The crisis has triggered urgent diplomatic discussions at the United Nations, where several countries accused the United States of bypassing international norms. Analysts warn that continuing unrest, coupled with uncertainty over Venezuela’s political future and control of its oil sector, could fuel further instability in the region in the days ahead.
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