WASHINGTON D.C January 4, 2026 — Billionaire Elon Musk declared support for Venezuelans by offering free Starlink broadband service through February 3, following the dramatic U.S. military operation that captured President Nicolás Maduro.
Musk posted on X early Sunday, quoting a Starlink announcement: “In support of the people of Venezuela 🇻🇪.” The service aims to maintain internet connectivity during the political upheaval after Maduro’s removal.
The move comes less than 24 hours after President Donald Trump announced a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela, during which U.S. forces captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The couple was transported to the United States, where Maduro faces federal narco-terrorism charges. Trump stated the U.S. would temporarily oversee Venezuela’s transition, including its oil resources.
Images and videos circulating online show Maduro in handcuffs, escorted by U.S. officials.
Starlink’s free service is seen as a boost for communication in a country where internet access has been restricted under Maduro’s regime. Satellite dishes have already been deployed in parts of Venezuela, enabling high-speed connectivity independent of ground infrastructure.
Celebrations erupted across Venezuela and among the diaspora following Maduro’s capture. Videos from Buenos Aires’ Obelisco show crowds cheering, with one speaker mocking critics who claim the U.S. intervention was solely for oil: “To those who say the United States is only interested in oil… What do you think the Russians and the Chinese wanted? The recipe for arepas?” Emotional scenes depict elderly women and young men in tears, draped in Venezuelan flags, proclaiming “We are finally free” and thanking the United States and President Trump.
The operation has sparked debate over its legality, with some Democrats calling it unconstitutional and others praising it as a strike against authoritarianism. International reactions remain mixed as the transitional period unfolds. Musk’s intervention underscores private sector involvement in the crisis, potentially aiding information flow during rebuilding efforts.
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