Venezuelans in Spain, including prominent opposition figures and citizens, have long awaited the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power. Xiomara Sierra, a key opposition figure who fled Venezuela in 2024 after facing threats, expressed concerns about the current interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, describing her as an enforcer of repression for the Venezuelan state.
Due to the oppressive regime under Maduro, many Venezuelans have sought refuge in Spain in recent years, with approximately 400,000 Venezuelans now residing in the country. Sarahy Chirinos, a Venezuelan bakery owner in Madrid, shared her mixed feelings about the situation, emphasizing the desire for a democratic transition led by María Corina Machado.
While some political prisoners have been released by the Venezuelan government, critics like Sierra believe more actions are needed, including the release of all political prisoners and the closure of torture centers. The opposition figures in exile, such as Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia and Antonio Ledezma, continue to advocate for democratic reconstruction in Venezuela.
Amid uncertainties about their future, Venezuelan asylum seekers in Spain express fears about the processing of their applications and the possibility of being sent back to Venezuela. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has pledged support for Venezuelans in determining their future, denouncing the recent U.S. operation.
Venezuelans in Spain are contemplating whether the situation in their home country has improved enough for a potential return. Despite hopes for a democratic transition, many remain cautious about going back until substantial changes occur. Members of the Venezuelan diaspora, like Erick Zuleta and his daughter Eriana, are cautiously optimistic about the prospects of rebuilding Venezuela but acknowledge that the path ahead is uncertain.