In Spain, numerous Venezuelan exiles, including prominent opposition figures and citizens, have long awaited a time when Nicolás Maduro would no longer hold power. Xiomara Sierra, a vocal critic of the Venezuelan government, experienced threats and accusations of terrorism during her involvement in an opposing political party’s campaign following the country’s July 2024 elections. She recalls being targeted by the justice minister on national television, leading her to flee Venezuela without saying goodbye to her family.
Now residing in Spain, Sierra, serving as a spokesperson for opposition leader María Corina Machado, expresses concerns about Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, whom she views as a tool for repression within the Venezuelan state. The influx of Venezuelan refugees seeking safety in Spain has notably increased due to the oppressive actions of the Maduro regime. With approximately 400,000 Venezuelans currently living in Spain, the cultural and linguistic similarities between the two countries have facilitated integration.
Despite hopes for a democratic transition under Machado’s leadership, many Venezuelans, like Sarahy Chirinos, who operates a Venezuelan bakery in Madrid, feel disillusioned by the current political landscape. The recent capture of Maduro by American forces has stirred mixed emotions among exiled opposition members in Spain, with some cautiously navigating their potential return to Venezuela.
Human rights organizations report that Venezuela detains around 800 to 900 political prisoners, predominantly apprehended during Maduro’s tenure. The release of some political prisoners by the Venezuelan government prompted a response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who called off additional military actions in the country. However, Sierra and other exiled opposition members emphasize that true change requires the release of all political prisoners and the closure of torture facilities, advocating for the respect of the Venezuelan population’s 2024 electoral choices.
As Venezuelans in Spain await decisions on their asylum applications, uncertainties loom over their future. The Spanish government has pledged to support Venezuelans in determining their destinies while condemning the recent U.S. intervention. Amidst increasing arrivals of Latin Americans, particularly Venezuelans, in Spain, concerns arise over potential policy shifts and the impact on asylum seekers.
For many like Chirinos, who left Venezuela with nothing and now runs a successful business in Spain, the decision of whether to return home remains complex. Eriana Zuleta, another Venezuelan in exile, hopes for a successful democratic transition in Venezuela before considering a return. Similarly, Erick Zuleta, a union leader from Venezuela, envisions contributing to the reconstruction of his homeland, contingent upon political developments.
Sierra and other exiled Venezuelans in Spain hold onto hope for a brighter future, fueled by recent events despite the challenges that lie ahead.