UPDATE: Protests erupted across major Australian cities following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US authorities. Demonstrators took to the streets in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, and Perth on Sunday evening, expressing outrage over what they labeled as a US takeover of Venezuela.
The situation escalated after Maduro was transported to New York under US guard, following a military offensive in Caracas. This dramatic turn of events, fueled by rising tensions between the two nations, has ignited a mix of anger and jubilation among Australians. President Donald Trump has stated that the US will “run the country” until a safe transition takes place, revealing plans to exploit Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves.
In Sydney, protesters rallied with signs reading “Hands off Venezuela” and “Down with imperialism.” The atmosphere was charged with emotion as supporters of Venezuela’s opposition waved flags and celebrated Maduro’s downfall. In Melbourne, over 150 protesters gathered at Flinders Street Station, chanting “shame” when speakers claimed Maduro had been “kidnapped.”
One speaker vehemently defended Maduro, calling allegations of election rigging and drug trafficking “outright propaganda.” The crowd echoed calls for the Australian government to sever ties with the US and denounce its actions.
“It is essential to support Venezuelans fighting for their sovereignty,”
one protester declared.
Australian Federal Liberal MP Tim Wilson described the situation as “extraordinary,” urging the government to consult with ambassador Kevin Rudd on US plans. He emphasized the need for cautious navigation of this crisis, stating, “It felt like watching a movie in real time.”
Meanwhile, Federal Nationals Leader David Littleproud acknowledged the removal of a “brutal dictator” but stressed the importance of respecting Venezuela’s sovereignty. “The world is watching, waiting to see the next move from the Trump administration,” he noted.
Australia is home to over 6,600 Venezuelan-born residents, with approximately 10,000 people of Venezuelan ancestry. The Venezuelan Association of Australia expressed concern over the emotional toll this situation may have on the diaspora, many of whom have faced forced separations and the long-term impacts of authoritarian rule. They stated,
“Our shared hope remains for a free, democratic, and united Venezuela.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further escalation. The US has long accused Maduro of operating a narco-state and rigging elections, claims he has consistently denied. With Maduro’s government still in place—Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has assumed the role of acting president—the situation remains fluid and requires close observation.
The immediate future remains uncertain as the global community watches closely. As protests continue in Australia, what happens next in Venezuela is poised to impact not only the South American nation but also international relations and geopolitical stability. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated; developments are unfolding rapidly and will be closely monitored.
