In the aftermath in Caracas, residents are processing the news of the arrest of President Maduro by US forces with a complex mix of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.
People began to emerge in the streets over the weekend after a night marked by detonations in the valley surrounding the capital, with moods that varied between celebration to condemnation.
Voices from the Streets
Dina, a local resident, expressed that for now, she is thankful for the US action for "removing Maduro from power" because now, she "at least can see some light at the end of the tunnel again".
"His statements are inconsistent and ever-changing," she commented about the US leadership. "I'm not used to taking his words seriously."
The political climate remains volatile, which is part of why she did not provide her full name.
Jorge, another citizen who lives outside the capital, told that while he's appreciative to be "backed by American forces", he fears the coming days will not be easy.
"Following his arrest, what's going to happen?" he wondered. "Nothing is assured. So there is a great deal of doubt. We don't know what the next chapter will bring."
Tense Political Landscape
Government loyalists have also been demonstrating publicly of Caracas, demanding the US release their leader.
Early Saturday, American military units carried out a series of targeted attacks in Caracas, ultimately taking the country's leader into custody.
The US accuses Maduro of leading a "narco-state" regime. He is widely seen by critics within his country and by foreign governments as having illegitimately won the last presidential vote.
Maduro – who heads the ruling party and has been in office since 2013 – has frequently been accused of repressing opposition groups and silencing dissent in Venezuela, sometimes with the use of violence.
A Path Full of Questions
With Maduro facing extradition to answer to serious criminal indictments, the country's destiny remains uncertain.
The risk of speaking out against Maduro is still palpable within Venezuela.
Jorge reported seeing riders from colectivos, which are armed collectives in Venezuela, patrolling neighborhoods with arms recently.
"It is intimidating to even go out to buy bread right now," he said. "We must hope for the best and remain patient."
Sandra, who lives in the city of Punto Fijo, echoed the relief at Maduro's ousting. But, she too is doubtful about the what lies ahead and what it means for the vast diaspora.
Close to eight million Venezuelans have left Venezuela since Maduro came to power.
"We are just at the start; we know there is still a difficult journey to come," Sandra added. "No country had previously heard the cry of Venezuelans in the face of this tragedy."
Among the populace, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the commitment of foreign investment in Venezuela, which some hope will lead to a "better economic situation" for the struggling nation.
