Venezuela's exiles in Chile caught between hope and uncertainty

Venezuelans living in Chile celebrate in Santiago on Jan. 3, 2026, after US forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro after launching a "large scale strike" on Venezuela.

Initial joy among Venezuela's diaspora in Chile has given way to caution, as questions grow over what Maduro's capture means for the country — and for those who fled it.

(Image credit: JAVIER TORRES)