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Following the dramatic events in Caracas, the people are responding to the news of the arrest of President Maduro by US forces with a wide spectrum of hope, fear, and uncertainty.

Residents started to appear in the streets over the weekend after a night filled with explosions in the Caracas Valley, with public sentiment that ranged from jubilation to outrage.

Citizen Perspectives

Dina, a Caracas resident, expressed that for now, she is grateful 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".

"He says something now and tomorrow he changes his mind," she commented regarding the US leadership. "I find it hard to trust his promises."

The political climate remains volatile, which is part of why she chose to use a pseudonym.

Jorge, another citizen who lives near Caracas, explained that while he's appreciative to be "backed by the United States", he fears the coming days will not be easy.

"Now that they are taking this man away, what's going to happen?" he wondered. "It offers no guarantees. So there is a great deal of doubt. We don't know what the next chapter will bring."

Tense Political Landscape

Maduro allies have also been rallying in the streets of Caracas, demanding the US release their leader.

Overnight, US forces executed a series of precision operations in Venezuela's capital, ultimately taking the country's leader into custody.

The American government charges Maduro of leading a "narco-terrorist" regime. He is broadly viewed by opponents domestically and by the international community as having fraudulently secured the last presidential vote.

Maduro – who leads the United Socialist Party and has been in office since 2013 – has frequently been accused of repressing opposition groups and stifling criticism in Venezuela, at times with the use of violence.

An Uncertain Future

With Maduro facing extradition to answer to serious criminal indictments, the future of Venezuela remains in flux.

The risk of speaking out against Maduro is still a genuine threat within Venezuela.

Jorge said he saw riders from colectivos, which are paramilitary groups in Venezuela, roaming the streets with weapons recently.

"It creates a sense of fear to even leave the house for essentials right now," he said. "Patience and hope are all we have."

Sandra, who lives in the city of Punto Fijo, shared the sense of relief at Maduro's removal. But, she too is skeptical about the what lies ahead and what it means for the millions in exile.

Close to eight million Venezuelans have left Venezuela since Maduro came to power.

"This is only the beginning; we know there is still a long road ahead," 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 promise of foreign investment in Venezuela, which some believe will lead to a "better economic situation" for the country in crisis.