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

Donald Trump hosted a celebratory dinner at his Mar-a-Lago estate on January 3, 2026, in honor of the reported capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The event attracted a crowd of Venezuelans expressing gratitude to Trump for what they viewed as liberation from Maduro’s regime, which had dominated the country for over a decade.

Videos shared on social media featured attendees, including artists Anirays Bolivar Camino and Adina Banea, embracing the former president and thanking him for the developments in Venezuela. Bolivar Camino expressed her appreciation, stating it was “an honor” to be the first Venezuelan to thank Trump for the dictator’s removal. Influencer Victoria Herrera also attended, calling the occasion a significant day for Venezuelans.

The opulent gathering also included technology entrepreneur Elon Musk, marking a notable shift in his relationship with Trump after their previous disputes during the summer of 2025. Trump received a warm welcome from attendees, who applauded as he entered the dining room.

The White House has not issued a statement regarding the event, but reactions to Maduro’s capture have varied worldwide. While some leaders expressed concern, the mood among Venezuelan expatriates was jubilant. Celebrations erupted in various locations, including Chile and Florida, where crowds gathered to rejoice in what they viewed as an end to tyranny.

In Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, significant activity was reported early on January 3, with loud noises and smoke observed as the operation unfolded. Reports indicate that Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were detained by the U.S. Army’s elite Delta Force during airstrikes at approximately 02:00 local time. Trump later acknowledged the operation, emphasizing the meticulous planning and skilled personnel involved.

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the U.S. military’s actions, suggesting they may contravene international law. Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, described the developments as a “dangerous precedent,” urging respect for human rights and the rule of law in Venezuela.

The U.S. indictment against Maduro accuses him of overseeing a corrupt government that has engaged in extensive drug trafficking, enriching Venezuela’s political elite while contributing to the country’s instability. Authorities allege that as much as 250 tons of cocaine were trafficked through Venezuela by 2020, operating through various means, including clandestine airstrips.

In light of these events, Trump stated that the United States would govern Venezuela indefinitely. He raised doubts about the potential leadership of Maria Corina Machado, claiming she lacked the necessary support to lead the country. Trump suggested that Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves could be leveraged to aid in the nation’s recovery.

The proceedings in Venezuela have drawn criticism from various quarters, with lawmakers questioning whether the motivations behind the U.S. intervention were primarily economic rather than a pursuit of justice. As the situation unfolds, the implications for Venezuela and its people remain a focal point of international attention.