On January 3, 2026, hundreds of Venezuelans gathered in Doral, Florida, to celebrate the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro, the President of Venezuela, by U.S. military forces. This event took place outside El Arepazo, a restaurant significant to the local Venezuelan community, and was marked by expressions of joy and hope for a potential return to democracy in Venezuela.

Attendees engaged in various forms of celebration, including chanting, waving flags, and toasting with champagne. Many expressed their emotions through songs and shared sentiments about the significance of this moment, with some likening it to pivotal historical events such as the Fall of the Berlin Wall. U.S. Representative Carlos Gimenez characterized the capture as a critical turning point in the region, while Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz cautioned that removing Maduro does not automatically resolve the ongoing violence and instability in Venezuela.

The U.S. military operation that led to Maduro's capture has raised significant questions regarding its legality and the implications of foreign military intervention. Political analysts have noted that this action could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, where millions have already fled due to severe socio-economic challenges. The U.S. government has been involved in various actions regarding Venezuela, including military operations aimed at regime change, which critics argue often lead to further instability and suffering for the local population.

In Doral, the atmosphere was one of cautious optimism, with many attendees expressing a desire for freedom and stability in Venezuela. However, there were also concerns about the future, as the community recognized the long road ahead in addressing the systemic issues that have plagued their homeland. Local leaders emphasized the need for international humanitarian support to aid in Venezuela's recovery and rebuild the country based on justice and democratic principles.

As the situation develops, the implications of Maduro's capture for both Venezuela and the Venezuelan diaspora remain uncertain, with many hoping for a new beginning while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.