Nearly three months have passed since U.S. forces attempted to remove Nicolás Maduro from the Venezuelan presidency. Despite this action, forces loyal to the socialist leader continue to govern the nation.

Members of the Venezuelan community in Utah, who generally oppose Maduro's rule, express confidence that transformation is underway, although many report continuing to live in fear.

Sustained Support for U.S. Policy

Norely López, originally from Venezuela and now residing in South Jordan, emphasized the importance of continued backing for U.S. policies.

"We as Venezuelans trust the work that is being done, and we know significant change is coming and that Venezuela will ultimately get liberty and democracy," López stated. She urged Venezuelans "to keep supporting President Trump's policies, regardless of the immigration issue."

López is actively involved with Vente Venezuela, a political movement striving for democracy's return. This movement is allied with opposition leader and 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Maria Corina Machado.

Insights from U.S. State Department

Carlos Moreno, a Salt Lake County Council member who fled political persecution in Venezuela in 2009, recently met with U.S. State Department representatives.

These officials provided updates on ongoing U.S. efforts aimed at fostering change within Venezuela. The meeting occurred after President Trump ordered a U.S. military operation on January 3 to remove Maduro, intending for him to face drug trafficking charges in a New York federal court.

The State Department personnel, seeking feedback from the Venezuelan diaspora in the U.S., confirmed that American personnel are currently in Venezuela. These personnel are reportedly working directly with Venezuelan officials to encourage shifts in governance.

Current Leadership and Future Outlook

Since Maduro's ouster, Delcy Rodriguez, a member of the Maduro government, has been serving as the nation's acting president.

Moreno anticipates that U.S. investment will increase, particularly in Venezuela's oil and electricity sectors, which he believes will further promote necessary changes.

"They are taking over the government. The United States has many representatives ... in many places in the Venezuelan government to start making changes," Moreno reported. He added that Rodriguez has reportedly been cooperating with U.S. officials.

Patience Required for Deep-Rooted Change

Hector Hernandez, who left Venezuela in 2021 due to political persecution, shares an optimistic view but stresses the need for patience.

"Everything in its time. It's not that fast because, remember, Chavismo has been in power for 28 years, and it's not easy to topple the c[hange]," Hernandez noted.