Venezuelans in Winnipeg express a range of emotions following U.S. military strikes and the reported capture of President Nicolás Maduro by President Donald Trump. Among them is Cristina Rodrigues Bonito, a Canadian resident since 2014, who felt a mix of joy and caution upon hearing the news. She hopes for a peaceful and swift transition in Venezuela but remains skeptical.
The events unfolded early Saturday in Caracas with explosions and low-flying aircraft, culminating in Maduro’s reported capture by the U.S. government. Trump declared that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela until a proper transition occurs, citing allegations of Maduro’s involvement in a “narco-state” and electoral fraud.
Jeanette Pantin Pérez, another Winnipeg-based Venezuelan, questions the motives behind Washington’s intervention in Venezuela. Trump emphasized oil during a press conference, pledging to revitalize Venezuelan infrastructure and distribute oil profits to benefit both Venezuelans and Americans.
Luiz Antonio Rodrigues Bonito, Cristina’s brother and a former resident of Venezuela, sees the U.S. intervention as a potential catalyst for positive change. He recalls a time when American companies’ involvement in the oil sector improved living standards in Venezuela. However, the shadow of fear still looms over his homeland, where economic challenges and safety concerns persist.
Despite celebrating in silence, many Venezuelans remain cautious about the uncertain future of their country. Cristina Bonito, echoing the sentiments of countless Venezuelans, hopes for freedom, progress, and a smooth transition of power. The international community has shown varied reactions to the U.S. intervention, with some nations supporting the move while others express concerns about its legitimacy and consequences.
In Winnipeg, a group gathered to protest the U.S. intervention, advocating for Venezuela’s self-determination and condemning international interference. Amid the unfolding events, voices like Pantin Pérez emphasize the need for genuine, legitimate changes in Venezuela, underscoring the importance of respecting sovereignty and international law in pursuing political transformations.