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As the dust settles in the Venezuelan capital, residents are reacting to the news of President Nicolás Maduro's capture by US forces with a complex mix of hope, fear, and uncertainty.

Residents started to appear in the streets on Saturday after a night filled with detonations in the valley surrounding the capital, with moods that ranged from jubilation to outrage.

Voices from the Streets

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

"He says something now and tomorrow he changes his mind," she commented about the American president. "I find it hard to trust his promises."

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

Jorge, another citizen who lives near Caracas, told that while he's appreciative to be "backed by the United States", he is apprehensive that the coming days will not be easy.

"With this man's removal, what's going to happen?" Jorge asked. "Nothing is assured. So there is a bit of uncertainty. We cannot predict what the next chapter will bring."

Loyalist Backlash

Government loyalists have also been rallying in the streets of the capital, demanding the US release their leader.

Early Saturday, US forces carried out 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 critics domestically and by the international community as having fraudulently secured the last presidential vote.

Maduro – who heads the United Socialist Party and has been in power since 2013 – has often faced allegations of crushing dissent and stifling criticism in Venezuela, sometimes 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 unclear.

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, patrolling neighborhoods with arms recently.

"It creates a sense of fear to even go out to buy bread right now," he said. "Patience and hope are all we have."

Sandra, who lives in the Venezuelan city of Punto Fijo, echoed 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 came to power.

"We are just at the start; 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 sole encouraging sign of recent statements is the promise of foreign investment in Venezuela, which some hope will lead to a "more stable economy" for the country in crisis.