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As the dust settles in Caracas, citizens are reacting to the news of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by US forces with a complex mix of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

Residents started to appear in the streets on Saturday after a night filled with explosions in the Caracas Valley, with public sentiment that varied between celebration to anger.

Citizen Perspectives

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 hope for the future again".

"He says something now and tomorrow he changes his mind," Dina said regarding the American president. "I find it hard to trust his promises."

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

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

"Following his arrest, what's going to happen?" Jorge asked. "It doesn't guarantee us anything. So there is a bit of uncertainty. We don't know what the coming days will bring."

Ongoing Tensions

Government loyalists have also been gathering in protest of the capital, demanding the US release their leader.

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

The US accuses Maduro of running a "narco-terrorist" regime. He is widely seen by critics domestically and by the international community as having illegitimately won Venezuela's recent election.

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

A Path Full of Questions

With Maduro facing extradition to answer to serious criminal indictments, the country's destiny remains unclear.

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

Jorge said he saw motorcyclists from colectivos, which are armed collectives in Venezuela, patrolling neighborhoods 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 Venezuelan city of Punto Fijo, echoed the relief at Maduro's removal. But, she too is doubtful about the what lies ahead and what it means for the vast diaspora.

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

"This is merely the first step; we know there is still a challenging path forward," Sandra added. "The world had long ignored the cry of Venezuelans in the face of this humanitarian crisis."

Among the populace, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the commitment of international investment in Venezuela, which some believe will lead to a "more stable economy" for the struggling nation.