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Following the dramatic events in Caracas, the people are responding to the news of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by American authorities with a complex mix of hope, fear, and uncertainty.

Citizens cautiously came out in the streets on Saturday after a night rocked by explosions in the valley surrounding the capital, with public sentiment that ranged from celebration to anger.

Mixed Reactions

Dina, a Caracas resident, stated that for now, she is thankful for the American intervention for "removing Maduro from power" because now, she "finally glimpses some hope for the future again".

"His statements are inconsistent and ever-changing," Dina said about the US leadership. "His declarations carry little weight with me."

The atmosphere in the country remains highly charged, which is part of why she chose to use a pseudonym.

Jorge, another Venezuelan who lives outside the capital, explained that while he's appreciative to be "backed by the United States", he fears the coming days will not be easy.

"Now that they are taking this man away, what's going to happen?" Jorge asked. "Nothing is assured. 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 the capital, demanding the American authorities free Maduro.

Overnight, US forces executed a series of precision operations in Venezuela's capital, ultimately taking the country's leader into custody.

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

Maduro – who leads the ruling party and has been in power since 2013 – has frequently been accused of repressing opposition groups and stifling criticism in Venezuela, sometimes with the use of violence.

An Uncertain Future

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

The danger of speaking out against Maduro is still palpable within Venezuela.

Jorge reported seeing riders from pro-government groups, which are paramilitary groups in Venezuela, patrolling neighborhoods with weapons recently.

"It creates a sense of fear 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, shared the relief at Maduro's removal. But, she too is skeptical about the future and what it means for the vast diaspora.

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

"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."

For many, the sole encouraging sign of recent statements is the promise of foreign investment in Venezuela, which some believe will lead to a "better economic situation" for the struggling nation.