A Long Road Ahead: Venezuelans React to Maduro's Arrest with Mixed Feelings.

In the aftermath in Caracas, residents are reacting to the news of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by American authorities with a wide spectrum of optimism, anxiety, and doubt.

Residents started to appear in the streets over the weekend after a night marked by explosions in the valley surrounding the capital, with moods 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 "at least can see some hope for the future 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 atmosphere in the country remains volatile, which is part of why she did not provide her full name.

Jorge, another citizen who lives outside the capital, explained that while he's appreciative to be "backed by American forces", he is apprehensive that the immediate future will not be easy.

"Following his arrest, 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."

Ongoing Tensions

Maduro allies have also been demonstrating publicly of the capital, demanding the US release their leader.

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

The American government charges Maduro of running a "narco-terrorist" regime. He is broadly viewed by critics domestically 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 often faced allegations of repressing opposition groups and stifling criticism in Venezuela, at times with the employment of force.

What Comes Next?

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

The danger of voicing opposition against Maduro is still a genuine threat within Venezuela.

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

"It is intimidating to even go out to buy bread right now," he said. "We must hope for the best and remain patient."

Sandra, who lives in the city of Punto Fijo, shared the relief at Maduro's ousting. 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 challenging path forward," Sandra added. "No country had previously heard the plea of Venezuelans in the face of this tragedy."

For many, the only positive aspect of recent statements is the commitment of foreign investment in Venezuela, which some believe will lead to a "improved financial outlook" for the struggling nation.