Venezuelans Grapple with Uncertainty as Maduro's Rule Faces Challenges

Thu Jan 08 2026 21:48:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following the recent seizure of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuelans are faced with a complex mix of optimism and fear about their future. While some celebrate the change, many remain cautious about the government's response and potential repercussions.

Venezuela is currently navigating an uncertain political landscape after the seizure of Nicolás Maduro. While many citizens feel relief and hope for change, others express fear and skepticism about the stability of the new government headed by interim president Delcy Rodríguez. As the situation unfolds, the public displays both support and opposition amid fears of potential violence and instability.

In the days since the seizure of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuelans have been coming to terms with an uncertain future as a new reality begins to set in.

Marcelo, a student based in Caracas, is among those welcoming Maduro's seizure, although he is careful not to celebrate publicly. There are still allies of Maduro that are in power, so there are a few reasons why we don't celebrate outside of our houses, he told the BBC World Service. But I can assure you that the majority of the people of Venezuela are very happy for what happened.

He is not the only one exercising caution. The BBC has been asking people how they feel about recent events, and what might happen next. Many of those opposed to Maduro's government asked to remain anonymous, fearing for their safety.

But there are also those who support him. Rosa Contreras says she felt humiliated by the United States. It seems so easy how they took our president away, the 57-year-old said.

Dozens of people are reported to have been killed in the operation that led to the Venezuelan leader and his wife being seized from his compound in Caracas, before being taken to the US where they face drug trafficking and weapons charges.

The Cuban government says 32 members of its security forces were among those killed.

Shortly after Maduro and his wife were taken, President Donald Trump stated that his administration would run Venezuela. However, the specifics of this transition remain unclear. Maduro's vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, has taken power in the interim, raising concerns due to her close ties to the ousted leader.

Police have intensified their presence in the streets, and journalists have reportedly faced detentions amid the political turmoil.

As various Venezuelans express their thoughts, opinions are sharply divided; those who lament the violence associated with Maduro's seizure also recognize the potential for political change. Nevertheless, citizens remain uncertain about what comes next, fearing further military action or civil unrest.

This complex environment reflects not only a hopeful anticipation for the future but also a deep-seated anxiety regarding the strength and intentions of the interim government.