At a Glance
- U.S. attack on Venezuela sparks hope among Venezuelan diaspora in Philadelphia.
- Venezuelan-Americans report feeling freedom possible for first time in long time.
- President Trump announces U.S. will “run” Venezuela until transition.
- Why it matters: The shift could reshape political landscape for Venezuelan citizens and diaspora.
Venezuelan communities around the world have reacted to the U.S. strike on Venezuela, with particular attention from the sizable Venezuelan-American population in Philadelphia.
Diaspora Voices
Venezuelan-Americans in Philadelphia-home to about 5,7000 people of Venezuelan ancestry and more than 13,000 in the greater area-spoke to News Of Philadelphia about the mood.
Fernando Torres said:
> “Today is the day that Venezuelan freedom and democracy has a light at the end of the tunnel,”
He recalled a call from his cousin in Caracas, who shared videos of explosions and low-flying aircraft.
- Freedom feels possible for the first time in a long time
- Saturday began with disbelief and turned into cautious celebration
- Concerns about who will take power after the vacuum
Political Statements
President Donald Trump said the U.S. carried out a large-scale strike early Saturday and “captured” Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
He also announced that the U.S. would “run” the country until a transition takes place.
Emilio Buitrago of Casa de Venezuela Philadelphia said:
> “We might disagree with methodology used, but just seeing Maduro out of power,”
> “We are hopeful, but we have to see what is next because the second in command is just part of the regime as Maduro was.”
Community Gathering
Casa de Venezuela, Casa de Venezuela Delaware, and Gente de Venezuela Philadelphia are inviting the community to gather at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Sunday at noon.
Emilio Buitrago added:
> “To come together in unity as a one large community and to pray for the best,”
> “I truly believe in the power of prayer.”
| Location | Population with Venezuelan ancestry |
|---|---|
| City of Philadelphia | 5,7000 |
| Greater Philadelphia | >13,000 |
Key Takeaways
- U.S. strike has sparked hope and uncertainty among Venezuelan diaspora.
- President Trump’s statements signal a new phase of U.S. involvement.
- Community groups plan a prayer gathering to unite the diaspora.
The U.S. strike has energized the Venezuelan community in Philadelphia, but questions about the future political landscape remain.
