PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — Local Venezuelans reacting to the news that many Latin American countries, as well the United States and Canada is recognizing a new leader Wednesday, challenging President Nicholas Maduro.
In South Florida, from Miami to West Palm Beach, Venezuelans joyous and hopeful about the future.
“Hopefully Venezuela will be free in the next few months, not 20 years from now. Viva la Venezuela!” said Karla Petit at West Palm Beach’s rally.
Thirty five-yea- old Juan Guiado declared himself the rightful president Wednesday, taking an oath of office, in the face of the maligned leader, Nicholas Maduro.
“I am totally overwhelmed,” Petit said about the news,
President Trump joined many countries in support of Guido, saying he is the recognized leader.
But Maduro dismissed the claim and gave American diplomats 72 hours to leave.
“I have decided to break diplomatic and political ties with the imperialist government of the United States,” Maduro said to supports in Spanish.
The South American country has been struggling with political oppression food shortages and a collapsing economy.
“I’m an attorney in Venezuela. I came from political asylum and I actually am so scared to go back to my country because someone can kill me,” Petit said.
Florida Senator Marco Rubio says none of the American diplomats should leave within three days, saying Maduro would be unwise to test President Trump if Maduro were to harm any diplomats.