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In the aftermath in the Venezuelan capital, citizens are responding to the news of the arrest of President Maduro by US forces with a wide spectrum of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

People began to emerge in the streets on Saturday after a night filled with detonations in the valley surrounding the capital, with public sentiment that varied between 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 hope for the future again".

"His word today may not be his word tomorrow," she commented regarding the US leadership. "I'm not used to taking his words seriously."

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

Jorge, another Venezuelan who lives near Caracas, explained that while he's appreciative to be "well-supported by American forces", he fears the coming days will not be easy.

"With this man's removal, what's going to happen?" Jorge asked. "It offers no guarantees. So there is a bit of uncertainty. We cannot predict what the coming days will bring."

Loyalist Backlash

Supporters of Maduro's government have also been demonstrating publicly of Caracas, demanding the US release their leader.

Overnight, American military units carried out a series of targeted attacks in Venezuela's capital, ultimately apprehending the president.

The American government charges Maduro of leading a "narco-state" regime. He is widely seen by opponents domestically and by the international community as having illegitimately won the last presidential vote.

Maduro – who leads the ruling party and has been in power since 2013 – has often faced allegations of repressing opposition groups and silencing dissent in Venezuela, at times with the employment of force.

An Uncertain Future

With Maduro facing extradition to face drug trafficking and weapons charges, the future of Venezuela remains in flux.

The risk of voicing opposition against Maduro is still very real within Venezuela.

Jorge said he saw riders from pro-government groups, which are armed collectives in Venezuela, roaming the streets with arms recently.

"It is intimidating to even leave the house for essentials right now," he said. "We must hope for the best and remain patient."

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

Close to eight million Venezuelans have fled Venezuela since Maduro assumed the presidency.

"This is only the beginning; we know there is still a challenging path forward," Sandra stated. "No country had previously heard the plea of Venezuelans in the face of this tragedy."

For many, the sole encouraging sign of recent statements is the promise of international investment in Venezuela, which some hope will lead to a "improved financial outlook" for the struggling nation.