Venezuelans react with a mix of hope and worry — As news spread of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s arrest by U.S. forces, people across Venezuela and within its global diaspora have expressed a complex range of emotions — from relief and celebration to fear and deep uncertainty about what comes next.
In the streets of Caracas, residents cautiously emerged after a night of explosions and unrest, with some celebrating the end of Maduro’s long rule and others remaining anxious about imminent stability. “We can see light at the end of the tunnel again,” said one local resident, while another acknowledged continuing fears over violence and the uncertain political landscape.
Across Venezuelan communities abroad, celebrations broke out — especially in South Florida, where many Venezuelan exiles gathered to chant “Liberty!” and express emotional hope for a future free from repression and economic hardship. Others expressed concern that military intervention and tentative U.S. governance could bring new challenges.
Among Venezuelans in the Dominican Republic and other countries, the arrest was seen as a moment of optimism that could mark the start of accountability and democratic restoration, with many expressing dreams of returning home and reuniting with families.
However, the mood remains cautious:
• Inside Venezuela, pro-Maduro groups have rallied, denouncing the arrest as a “kidnapping” and demanding his release, highlighting lingering divisions.
• Many on the ground fear continued instability, with armed groups and political loyalists still active, raising concerns about public safety and governance.
• Even among supporters of Maduro’s removal, uncertainty persists about how swiftly meaningful change will come, how power will transfer, and whether fundamental reforms will address longstanding economic and social crises.
Regional and global context — The arrest has sparked both celebration among many Venezuelans and criticism internationally. Latin American leaders are divided, with some condemning the U.S. action as a violation of Venezuelan sovereignty and others cautiously welcoming the end of a controversial regime.
Looking ahead — Venezuelans widely acknowledge that this moment marks a turning point, but they also recognize that “a long road lies ahead” toward rebuilding democratic institutions, restoring economic stability, and healing deep societal divisions that have accumulated over decades.
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