Venezuelans in the US are torn between joy and worry after ousting of Maduro
3 minute readPublished: Monday, January 12, 2026 at 1:05 pm
Venezuelan Migrants in US Grapple with Mixed Emotions Following Maduro's Ouster
NEW YORK - Following the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the Trump administration, Venezuelan migrants in the United States are experiencing a complex mix of emotions. While many express joy at Maduro's ouster, they also harbor significant concerns about the future and their own status in the U.S.
The Trump administration's actions, including the removal of Maduro, have been met with a range of reactions from the over 770,000 Venezuelans residing in the U.S. Many are relieved by Maduro's removal, citing his authoritarian rule, economic mismanagement, and the resulting mass exodus of Venezuelans. However, the absence of a stable, new government and the continued presence of Maduro's allies in positions of power fuel anxiety.
A key source of worry is the Trump administration's policy on deporting Venezuelans without permanent residency. Many Venezuelans were granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which the Trump administration later revoked. This has left many in a precarious situation, hesitant to return to Venezuela due to the risks associated with the previous regime, yet facing potential deportation from the U.S.
The economic collapse under Maduro, which led to hyperinflation and scarcity of basic necessities, drove millions to seek refuge abroad. Many Venezuelans initially fled to neighboring countries before eventually making their way to the U.S., often facing perilous journeys.
While some Venezuelans express gratitude for the Trump administration's actions, they also voice concerns about the potential for a limited change. The lack of a clear transition plan and the continued presence of Maduro's loyalists in positions of power raise doubts about the stability and safety of returning to Venezuela.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that many Venezuelans have built new lives in the U.S., establishing families, finding employment, and seeking asylum. The Trump administration's policies on immigration have created a sense of uncertainty, with some Venezuelans already leaving the U.S. for other countries.
BNN's Perspective: The situation highlights the complexities of international relations and immigration. While the removal of Maduro is a positive step, the long-term implications for Venezuelan migrants in the U.S. remain uncertain. A balanced approach that considers both the security concerns of the U.S. and the humanitarian needs of Venezuelan migrants is crucial.
Keywords: Venezuelan migrants, Maduro, Trump administration, deportation, Temporary Protected Status, TPS, Venezuela, immigration, asylum, political asylum, economic collapse, hyperinflation, migration, removal, ouster.