Dozens rallied in Winnipeg’s Osborne Village, opposing U.S. intervention in Venezuela after President Maduro’s capture.
On Sunday, anger filled the streets of Osborne Village in Winnipeg as dozens protested against the U.S. government’s actions in Venezuela. This rally occurred a day after the U.S. captured President Nicolás Maduro.
Nasser Alfodoul, a Canadian born to Venezuelan parents, expressed his views, saying, “It’s not for the United States to decide who is the president of our country; we will decide that ourselves.” He waved a large Venezuelan flag while marching along Osborne Street near River Avenue.
Maduro, 63, was captured during a U.S. military operation on Saturday and was in custody in New York City as of Sunday. He has been in power since 2012, succeeding Hugo Chávez. His presidency has faced criticism, especially after elections in 2018 and 2024 were deemed fraudulent by many countries, including the U.S. and Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on social media, “Canada has not recognized the illegitimate regime of Maduro since it stole the 2018 election.” He welcomed the opportunity for freedom and democracy for the Venezuelan people.
Since taking office last January, President Trump’s administration has targeted Maduro with sanctions and tariffs on Venezuelan oil, increasing the reward for his arrest to $50 million.
During the protest, some demonstrators laid American flags on the ground, encouraging drivers to drive over them. While many passing motorists honked in support, others reacted negatively. One man in a pickup truck showed his displeasure by flashing a middle finger at the protesters.
Ivan Pankratz, from the Winnipeg Peace Alliance, one of the protest organizers, emphasized that the U.S. should not unilaterally remove leaders from sovereign countries. He acknowledged that while many people criticize Maduro, the method of his removal is the main concern.
Carlos, a Chilean supporter of Venezuela, shared his views against U.S. intervention, stating, “We believe in the political process.” He recognized that some Venezuelans may be pleased with Maduro’s ousting but disagreed with how it was executed.
