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In the aftermath in Caracas, residents are reacting 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 rocked by explosions in the Caracas Valley, with moods 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 hope for the future again".

"His statements are inconsistent and ever-changing," Dina said regarding the American president. "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 "backed by American forces", he fears the immediate future will not be easy.

"With this man's removal, what's going to happen?" he wondered. "Nothing is assured. So there is a great deal of doubt. We cannot predict what the next chapter will bring."

Ongoing Tensions

Maduro allies have also been rallying in the streets of Caracas, demanding the American authorities free Maduro.

Early Saturday, US forces carried out a series of precision operations in Caracas, ultimately taking the country's leader into custody.

The US accuses Maduro of running a "narco-terrorist" regime. He is widely seen by opponents domestically and by the international community as having fraudulently secured the last presidential vote.

Maduro – who heads the United Socialist Party and has been in power since 2013 – has frequently been accused of repressing opposition groups and stifling criticism in Venezuela, sometimes with the employment of force.

What Comes Next?

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

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

Jorge reported seeing riders from colectivos, 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 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 came to power.

"We are just at the start; we know there is still a long road ahead," Sandra added. "No country had previously heard the plea of Venezuelans in the face of this humanitarian crisis."

For many, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the commitment of international investment in Venezuela, which some hope will lead to a "more stable economy" for the country in crisis.