On a bitterly cold Monday in New York City, a federal courthouse became the focal point for intense global debate. As Venezuela's President, Nicolás Maduro, pleaded not guilty to serious international charges inside, a divided crowd gathered outside to voice starkly opposing views on his dramatic capture by the United States.
A Scene of Celebration and Condemnation
On 5 January 2026, dozens of demonstrators braved freezing temperatures outside the federal courthouse in Lower Manhattan. The event was triggered by the unprecedented US military action over the weekend, which forcibly removed Maduro from Venezuela to face justice in America. The charges levelled against him include conspiracy related to international drug trafficking and weapons offences.
Among the crowd, Venezuelan expatriate Alejandro Flores, 34, joined chants celebrating the detention. A former resident of Caracas now living in Brooklyn, Flores described a personal connection to the events. He revealed that relatives still in Venezuela live in buildings affected by the US strikes that preceded Maduro's capture. "The fact that Maduro is in court means justice is being served," Flores told reporters, blaming the president for the exodus of millions from the country.
Voices Against Intervention and Fears for the Future
Across a police-divided protest zone, a different perspective emerged. Activist Izzy McCabe, 21, had travelled from Seattle to denounce what she termed US imperialism. A member of the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, McCabe had recently attended a socialist assembly in Venezuela. She stated her purpose was to protest against US intervention and uphold international law, citing conversations with Venezuelans committed to resisting foreign influence.
The emotional weight of the situation was further illustrated by Pedro Reyes, who recounted being shot at by Venezuelan authorities over a decade ago for protesting. Now in the US awaiting an asylum decision, Reyes expressed cautious relief. "We are happy that Maduro was detained, but this happiness is momentary," he said in Spanish, voicing fears about safety and the lingering influence of Maduro's associates should he ever return home.
Diaspora Concerns and a Plea for Understanding
The community group Venezuelans and Immigrants Aid issued a statement highlighting the profound worries of the diaspora. Their primary concern remains the safety of family members inside Venezuela, who risk harassment or detention. The statement also detailed the crippling humanitarian crisis, where a collapsed public health system and an official minimum wage of just a few dollars a month force those abroad to support entire households.
The protest visuals captured the deep split: signs reading "Free President Maduro" and "USA, Hands off Venezuela" were waved alongside banners stating "Thank you, President Donald Trump." As global opinions collided on a New York sidewalk, one sentiment from the gathered diaspora cut through the noise: "If you want to know what is happening in Venezuela, ask a Venezuelan."
