Venezuela, Thekabarnews.com – On Saturday, Venezuelans all over the world celebrated a rare moment of joy. This happened after the United States captured their country’s longtime dictatorial leader. It ended years of international efforts to catch a person accused of drug trafficking and human rights violations.

U.S. officials confirmed the arrest of the former strongman. He had maintained an iron grip over Venezuela for years. They said he was a key player in a drug trafficking network that crossed national borders.

American officials said that the leader exploited government institutions to help run large-scale drug operations. He also gained power via repression, intimidation, and the methodical destruction of democratic institutions.

The news made millions of Venezuelans living abroad celebrate and gather with family and friends. They showed their relief. People from the Venezuelan diaspora sent messages of optimism to cities in Latin America, the United States, and Europe. Many said that the arrest was a long-overdue reckoning.

A Venezuelan community organizer in Miami remarked, “This is not just about one man. It is about being responsible for years of pain, hunger, and being forced to leave.”

A crisis that made millions leave

Venezuela’s long political and economic breakdown caused one of the biggest migratory crises in contemporary history. Over the previous ten years, well over seven million Venezuelans have left the country. They sought to escape hyperinflation, food shortages, failing healthcare systems, and political persecution.

Human rights groups have monitored arbitrary arrests, torture, and violent crackdowns on the opposition. This happened throughout the leader’s time in power. At the same time, U.S. authorities said he made Venezuela a center for cocaine shipments to North America and Europe.

While many in other countries celebrated, emotions in Venezuela were varied and cautious. The country remains dealing with profound institutional damage and political uncertainty. Analysts say that the arrest, while symbolically significant, does not solve Venezuela’s governance crisis immediately.

Still, Saturday’s revelation was a big turning point for many Venezuelans who had lived in exile for years.

A Venezuelan student living in Spain observed, “It feels like justice is finally catching up for the first time in a long time.”

Officials in the U.S. emphasized that judicial proceedings are still underway. They are committed to pursuing individuals responsible for drug trafficking, corruption, and human rights abuses related to the Venezuelan government. They aim to hold them accountable.