In the wake of the US 'Absolute Resolve' operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores on January 3, 2026, numerous Venezuelan celebrities and journalists flooded social media with emotional celebrations, marking the end of an era of repression.
Reactions poured in from prominent figures as news spread. Influencer La Divaza shared tearful Instagram videos: “Oh, Maduro fell! Damn, I'm happy, I'm going to have a thing, I didn't think I'd be alive for this moment.” Singer Carlos Baute posted: “Venezuela has begun its path to freedom,” adding in a video: “Finally, Mr. Trump said he caught that satrap Maduro.”
Journalist Elyangélica González broke down on live TV: “My body is trembling from what's happening.” Actress Marjorie de Sousa wrote: “God is great! Free Venezuela.” Marko cautioned Diosdado Cabello: “Your time to be afraid has come.” Ricardo Montaner prayed: “Lord, care for and bless the Venezuelan people.” Carolina Sandoval exclaimed: “My God, Christ, up with free Venezuela!”
Meanwhile, the Venezuelan government declared a state of exterior commotion and rallied supporters. The US issued security alerts and flight bans over Venezuelan airspace. Internationally, Argentina's Javier Milei backed the operation, while Cuba, Iran, and Mexico condemned it.
These jubilant responses from the Venezuelan cultural scene underscore the capture's significance, amid ongoing uncertainties about the country's political transition.