The United States imposed sanctions and, in 2020, indicted Maduro on charges of narco-terrorism. On January 3, 2026, the United States launched “Operation Absolute Resolve,” capturing Maduro and his wife, who were then taken to New York to face federal charges.

The ramifications of this action reached the Curtis community.  There are mixed feeling about the operation. As one Venezuelan freshman explained, “Power was always in one person’s hands. People stopped trusting the government long before the economy collapsed. ”

Another Venezuelan sophomore explained, “My grandparents wait hours just to get food or medicine. Every week, things get worse.” For those who have family back in Venezuela, the crisis creates an ongoing sense of worry and concern about their family’s safety and their uncertain future. The pain grows because they are not able to go see them due to their legal status.

As millions of Venezuelans have migrated out of their country, Colombia has been the most popular destination for these migrants, and this has put a strain on their schools, hospitals, housing, and workforce. A Colombian junior explained, “Classrooms and hospitals are overcrowded now.” Another Colombian junior explained, “People want to help, but there aren’t enough jobs or resources.”

A third student explained, “Armed groups take advantage of the border chaos and being dangerous into Colombia.” Colombian juniors who have family members back in Colombia also worry about their safety, the increasing cost of living, and the deteriorating situation.

The Venezuelan crisis demonstrates the impact of authoritarianism and the collapse of governments on humans. The situation continues to affect Venezuela and Colombia – students of both countries fear for the safety of their relatives.

***Many of the students who were interviewed for this article are undocumented. For their safety we have left them anonymous.