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In the aftermath in the Venezuelan capital, residents are responding to the news of the arrest of President Maduro by American authorities with a complex mix of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

Citizens cautiously came out in the streets over the weekend after a night marked by explosions in the valley surrounding the capital, with public sentiment that ranged from celebration to outrage.

Mixed Reactions

Dina, a Caracas resident, stated that for now, she is thankful for the American intervention for "taking Maduro out of here" because now, she "at least can see some light at the end of the tunnel again".

"His word today may not be his word tomorrow," she commented about the US leadership. "I find it hard to trust his promises."

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

Jorge, another Venezuelan who lives near Caracas, told that while he's grateful to be "backed by the United States", he fears the immediate future will not be easy.

"Following his arrest, what's going to happen?" he wondered. "It offers no guarantees. So there is a great deal of doubt. We cannot predict what the next chapter will bring."

Loyalist Backlash

Maduro allies have also been gathering in protest of the capital, demanding the American authorities free Maduro.

In the early hours, 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 leading a "narco-state" regime. He is widely seen by opponents within his country and by the international community as having fraudulently secured Venezuela's recent election.

Maduro – who leads 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 use of violence.

What Comes Next?

As Maduro and his wife are extradited to answer to serious criminal indictments, the country's destiny remains uncertain.

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 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 Venezuelan 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 millions in exile.

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

Among the populace, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the commitment of foreign investment in Venezuela, which some believe will lead to a "better economic situation" for the struggling nation.