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In the aftermath in Caracas, the people are responding to the news of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by American authorities with a complex mix of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

Residents started to appear in the streets on Saturday after a night marked by explosions in the valley surrounding the capital, with moods that varied between jubilation to condemnation.

Mixed Reactions

Dina, a local resident, expressed that for now, she is grateful for the American intervention 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 find it hard to trust his promises."

The political climate remains tense, which is part of why she did not provide her full name.

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

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

Ongoing Tensions

Government loyalists have also been gathering in protest of Caracas, demanding the American authorities free Maduro.

In the early hours, American military units executed a series of precision operations in Caracas, ultimately apprehending the president.

The American government charges Maduro of running a "narco-state" regime. He is widely seen by opponents domestically and by the international community as having illegitimately won Venezuela's recent election.

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

What Comes Next?

With Maduro facing extradition to face drug trafficking and weapons charges, the country's destiny remains uncertain.

The risk of speaking out against Maduro is still very real within Venezuela.

Jorge reported seeing riders from pro-government groups, which are paramilitary groups in Venezuela, roaming the streets with weapons recently.

"It makes you a bit afraid 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, shared the relief at Maduro's ousting. But, she too is skeptical about the future and what it means for the millions in exile.

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

"This is merely the first step; 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."

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 "more stable economy" for the country in crisis.