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In the aftermath in Caracas, the people are responding to the news of the arrest of President Maduro by US forces with a complex mix of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

People began to emerge in the streets on Saturday after a night filled with detonations in the Caracas Valley, with public sentiment that varied between celebration to condemnation.

Citizen Perspectives

Dina, a local resident, expressed that for now, she is thankful for the US action 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 highly charged, 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 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 offers no guarantees. So there is a great deal of doubt. We cannot predict what the coming days will bring."

Loyalist Backlash

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

Overnight, American military units carried out a series of targeted attacks in Venezuela's capital, ultimately taking the country's leader into custody.

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

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

What Comes Next?

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

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

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

"It makes you a bit afraid to even go out to buy bread right now," he said. "We'll have to wait for the best and have patience."

Sandra, who lives in the city of Punto Fijo, echoed the sense of relief at Maduro's removal. But, she too is skeptical about the what lies ahead and what it means for the vast diaspora.

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 difficult journey to come," Sandra added. "The world had long ignored the cry of Venezuelans in the face of this humanitarian crisis."

For many, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the promise of international investment in Venezuela, which some believe will lead to a "better economic situation" for the country in crisis.