Venezuelans in St. Louis View U.S. Strikes as Pursuit of Freedom, Not War

TL/DR –

Many Venezuelans in St. Louis perceive the U.S. airstrikes on Venezuela as a positive step towards freedom, not as acts of war. They feel that the removal of Nicolas Maduro, who they believe was placed in government unconstitutionally, is a necessary step towards democratic governance. While some groups in the U.S. protested the attacks, many Venezuelans hope for the end of Maduro’s regime and the release of those jailed for political reasons.

Venezuelans in St. Louis View US Airstrikes as Pursuit of Freedom

Venezuelans in St. Louis consider the recent US airstrikes on Venezuela as a pursuit of freedom rather than war. Eydi Cavalieri, a Venezuelan living in Chesterfield, views the strikes and capture of Nicolas Maduro positively.

“For us, it’s not a war but a necessary step towards freedom,” Cavalieri stated. She mentioned that the general Venezuelan perception is different from how some Americans view the situation. “We don’t see this as war or invasion, but as the removal of someone who was positioned unconstitutionally.”

RELATED: Local leaders’ reactions to US strikes on Venezuela

Martin Mejia, a WashU Latin Studies lecturer, suggests the events could help the country steer away from a Socialist party and towards democracy. “It’s too early to predict, but it seems like a big step towards a democratic Venezuela,” Mejia expressed.

“Maduro was ousted due to narcotrafficking and his actions over his long tenure. People suffered greatly during this period,” added Cavalieri. While protests against the airstrikes were held by the St. Louis Democratic Socialists of America, many Venezuelans cheer for the end of Maduro’s regime.

“Most Venezuelans we talk to want this to end. We view it positively but acknowledge there’s much to be done,” Cavalieri said. She hopes for the release of political prisoners and for activists like Maria Corina Machado to steer the country right.

—
Read More US Political News