Venezuelans in the US are torn between joy and worry after ousting of Maduro
January 11, 2026
For thousands of Venezuelans living in the U.S., the days since the Trump administration ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro have brought a mixture of joy and trepidation. The removal of Maduro is “a first step, but we’re nervous,” said Alejandra Salima, who fled to the U.S. three years ago and assists other Venezuelans at the Miami office of an advocacy group. She and most others are thrilled that Maduro has been removed. But Trump’s move to deport Venezuelans without permanent residency has increased worry among many living in the U.S. At the same time, the fear instilled by the government Maduro left behind makes many wary of returning.