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In the aftermath in the Venezuelan capital, citizens are responding to the news of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by American authorities with a wide spectrum of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

Citizens cautiously came out in the streets on Saturday after a night filled with explosions in the valley surrounding the capital, with moods that varied between celebration to condemnation.

Mixed Reactions

Dina, a local resident, stated that for now, she is grateful for the American intervention for "taking Maduro out of here" because now, she "at least can see some hope for the future again".

"His statements are inconsistent and ever-changing," Dina said regarding the US leadership. "I'm not used to taking his words seriously."

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

Jorge, another citizen who lives outside the capital, told that while he's grateful to be "well-supported by the United States", he is apprehensive that the coming days will not be easy.

"Now that they are taking this man away, what's going to happen?" Jorge asked. "It doesn't guarantee us anything. So there is a great deal of doubt. We cannot predict 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.

Early Saturday, American military units executed a series of targeted attacks 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 widely seen by critics within his country and by foreign governments as having fraudulently secured the last presidential vote.

Maduro – who heads the ruling party and has been in office since 2013 – has often faced allegations of crushing dissent and stifling criticism in Venezuela, sometimes with the use of violence.

An Uncertain Future

As Maduro and his wife are extradited to answer to serious criminal indictments, the future of Venezuela remains unclear.

The risk of speaking out 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 makes you a bit afraid to even leave the house for essentials right now," he said. "We'll have to wait for the best and have patience."

Sandra, who lives in the Venezuelan 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 merely the first step; we know there is still a challenging path forward," Sandra added. "The world had long ignored the plea of Venezuelans in the face of this tragedy."

Among the populace, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the promise of international investment in Venezuela, which some hope will lead to a "improved financial outlook" for the country in crisis.