Friday World January 4, 2026
On January 3, 2026, US President Donald Trump ordered a large-scale military strike on Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. American forces conducted airstrikes on Caracas, leading to explosions, power outages, and at least 40 reported deaths. Trump described the action as a triumph against narco-terrorism, drug trafficking, and "stolen" oil resources, announcing that the United States would temporarily "run" Venezuela until a safe transition to a legitimate government could occur.
The operation, executed without prior congressional notification or approval, has ignited fierce debate across the United States. While some Venezuelan diaspora communities in cities like Miami celebrated Maduro's removal, the broader American public response has been one of outrage, with protests erupting nationwide against what critics call an unconstitutional and reckless act of aggression.
Widespread Protests Sweep Across America In New York City's Times Square, hundreds gathered chanting "Hands off Venezuela" and holding signs reading "US Out" and "No Blood for Oil." Demonstrators waved Venezuelan flags and accused the Trump administration of imperialism and risking another endless war. Similar scenes unfolded outside the White House in Washington, D.C., where protesters used megaphones at Lafayette Square to condemn the military intervention as a violation of sovereignty.
In other cities, including Atlanta, Georgia, and Boston, Massachusetts, crowds rallied with signs opposing US actions. Organizers from groups like the ANSWER Coalition and The People's Forum called for nationwide demonstrations, labeling the strike as "not about drug trafficking or democracy — it is about stealing Venezuela's oil and dominating Latin America." Protests continued into January 4, with participants arguing that over 70% of Americans oppose new wars and that public funds should address domestic needs instead.
Democratic leaders have been vocal in their criticism. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned that Trump's plan to "run Venezuela" should "strike fear in the hearts of all Americans," comparing it to failed interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan. Lawmakers like Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) questioned the constitutionality, while others highlighted the lack of congressional oversight and the potential for escalation.
Even Among Supporters, Signs of Unease Emerge Trump's "America First" base, which historically opposed foreign wars and regime change, has shown mixed reactions. Some die-hard MAGA supporters rallied behind the strike, viewing Maduro's removal as a blow against narco-terrorism and Chinese/Russian influence in the hemisphere. However, Trump's declaration of US control over Venezuela — including promises that oil giants would invest billions and that the operation "won't cost us a penny" — has caused discomfort among isolationist factions haunted by Iraq and Afghanistan.
Reports indicate consternation among some Trump loyalists who embraced his commitment to ending wars and avoiding foreign entanglements. Figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene questioned whether the action aligns with "America First" priorities, suggesting focus should shift to issues like Mexico's drug cartels instead. Analysts note that pre-strike polls showed low public support for military force against Maduro, and the prospect of occupation has led a portion of supporters to quietly distance themselves, fearing another costly quagmire.
The Broader Context and Risks The strike follows months of escalating US pressure, including seizures of Venezuelan oil tankers and threats of further action. Trump framed it as a law enforcement operation backed by military force, but international law experts and Democrats argue it constitutes an illegal use of force without UN approval or congressional authorization. The operation has raised fears of chaos in Venezuela, where pro-Maduro supporters protested his capture while opposition figures expressed cautious hope.
As protests grow and divisions deepen, the Venezuela crisis tests the limits of executive power and America's role in the world. With Maduro now in New York facing charges, the coming days will reveal whether public backlash forces a rethink — or if Trump doubles down on his boldest foreign policy move yet.
Friday World January 4, 2026
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
