Venezuelans Celebrate Maduro’s Removal at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Dinner

Donald Trump hosted a lavish dinner at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach on January 3, 2026, celebrating the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan dictator who had ruled for over thirteen years. The event saw an enthusiastic gathering of Venezuelan expatriates, many of whom expressed gratitude towards Trump for his role in Maduro’s removal.

Videos shared by Venezuelan influencers showcased the emotional reactions of attendees, who embraced Trump and thanked him for liberating their nation. Among those present were artists Anirays Bolivar Camino and Adina Banea, as well as influencer Victoria Herrera. Bolivar Camino described it as an honor to be the first Venezuelan to express thanks to Trump for what she termed the end of a dictatorship.

Herrera, who attended with her husband, referred to Trump as “my president,” highlighting the sense of joy among Venezuelans at the event. She expressed her pride in being able to celebrate such a significant moment in history alongside Trump, who received a warm welcome as he entered the dining room, greeted by applause and cheers from the crowd.

Elon Musk was also in attendance, marking a surprising shift in his relationship with Trump, following previous tensions between the two. The event was characterized by a festive atmosphere, reflecting the sentiments of Venezuelan expatriates around the world, many of whom took to the streets to celebrate the news of Maduro’s capture.

Venezuelans around the globe rejoiced, with celebrations reported in cities such as Santiago, Chile, and Doral, Florida. One celebrant in Chile noted that the fall of the dictatorship marked a new beginning, stating, “We are free, we are all happy that the dictatorship has fallen.” Another Venezuelan in Florida spoke of justice being served for those who had fled the country, expressing hopes of returning to rebuild their homeland.

On the ground in Venezuela, the operation to capture Maduro unfolded dramatically. Reports indicated that the elite U.S. Army Delta Force conducted airstrikes in Caracas around 02:00 local time, leading to Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being detained. Explosions and smoke were reported throughout the city, marking a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in Venezuelan affairs.

In a statement shortly after the operation, Trump described it as a well-planned mission, underscoring the effectiveness of U.S. military forces. When questioned about Congressional consultation prior to authorizing the strike, Trump indicated that discussions would follow, leaving some details ambiguous.

The United Nations expressed deep concern regarding the U.S. military actions and the implications for international law. Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric called the developments a dangerous precedent, urging all parties in Venezuela to respect human rights and the rule of law.

The U.S. indictment against Maduro alleges his involvement in a corrupt regime that facilitated extensive drug trafficking, enriching Venezuela’s political and military elites. According to U.S. authorities, Maduro was linked to violent drug traffickers, with estimates suggesting that as much as 250 tons of cocaine were trafficked through Venezuela by 2020.

As the situation unfolds, Trump suggested that the United States would retain governance over Venezuela for the foreseeable future, voicing skepticism about the potential leadership of Maria Corina Machado, Venezuela’s popular opposition leader. He asserted that the country’s substantial oil reserves could be utilized to support its revival, a stance that has drawn criticism from U.S. lawmakers who question the underlying motivations behind the military operation.

The celebratory atmosphere at Mar-a-Lago contrasts sharply with the mixed reactions from world leaders and international organizations regarding the military action and its potential consequences for Venezuela and the region. The unfolding events mark a pivotal moment in Venezuelan history, with far-reaching implications for its future.