Venezuela awoke on January 4, 2026, to historic news: President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been removed from power in a U.S. military operation. While some Venezuelans celebrated, others felt a deep sense of uncertainty, reflecting a nation on the cusp of monumental change.

Mixed Emotions Across the Country

For Wilmer Castro, a 26-year-old university student in Ejido, the news arrived amid birthday celebrations, quickly transforming joy into disbelief and hope.

“I think it is the best gift that I will ever receive, one I will never forget,” Castro told Al Jazeera.
“I will tell my grandchildren that on January 3, 2026, a dictator fell, and that moment will be very beautiful.”

However, Castro and many others soon experienced the weight of uncertainty as Venezuelans grappled with what comes next. After years of authoritarian rule, economic instability, and political repression, the fall of Maduro does not instantly resolve Venezuela’s deep-seated challenges.

The Operation That Shook Caracas

Residents like Edward Ocariz, a human rights activist, described the tense hours of Maduro’s capture. Helicopters flew over southeastern Caracas, smoke rose, and mobile networks briefly went down.

“There was a deathly silence. We were waiting to understand what was happening,” Ocariz said.
“It was a fear mixed with joy – tremendous joy. It’s hard to explain.”

Ocariz spent nearly five months as a political prisoner under Maduro’s regime, wrongfully charged with “terrorism.” His reflections highlight the psychological fear and repression that have characterized life under Maduro.

Political and Institutional Uncertainty

Although Maduro has been removed, key government institutions remain under the influence of his inner circle. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has been named acting president, a move that some Venezuelans view with skepticism.

“It is frustrating to see a senior Chavista figure still in power,” Ocariz said.
“However, Venezuela needs to continue with its administrative, functional, and operational management as a nation.”

The presence of Maduro loyalists, combined with continued U.S. involvement, has created an atmosphere of cautious optimism mixed with fear. Many Venezuelans are unsure whether political repression will end or if a power vacuum could lead to instability.

Economic Concerns Amid Political Change

Venezuela’s economy remains in crisis, burdened by hyperinflation, shortages, and the lingering effects of sanctions. Experts warn that the new government must address economic recovery urgently.

Jose Chalhoub, a political risk analyst in Caracas, emphasized that:

“A new government that applies quick economic measures leading to recovery will outshine the ideological legacy of the Bolivarian revolution.”

Chalhoub also noted that disarming armed civilian groups known as “colectivos” and reforming security forces will be crucial to maintaining order during the transition.

At the same time, ordinary citizens are navigating immediate concerns. Castro described long lines and panic buying as Venezuelans tried to stock up on basic necessities.

“People in the street were going crazy yesterday… we don’t know what the future holds,” he said, recalling memories of the 2016 hyperinflation crisis.

Looking to the Future

Venezuelans are reflecting on the delicate balance between hope for freedom and fear of uncertainty. While Maduro’s removal represents a historic turning point, the country faces pressing questions: Who will lead effectively? Will political repression end? Can the economy recover?

“There’s happiness, there’s fear, there’s gratitude, there’s the ‘what will happen next?’” Castro said.
“For my next birthday, I want total freedom for Venezuela – and hopefully, God willing, we will have it.”

The events mark the beginning of a new chapter for Venezuela, one defined by potential transformation but shadowed by the challenges of rebuilding a nation long under authoritarian rule.