Venezuela's Tense Streets: What's Next After Maduro's Arrest?

Armed Groups Patrol Streets

Armed groups, known as Colectivos, loyal to Nicolás Maduro, are stopping people on the streets. They check phones and cars, searching for any signs of U.S. support following Maduro's capture.

Fear Grips the Population

• Oswaldo, a shop owner, expresses uncertainty about the future.
• Many citizens are too afraid to leave their homes, fearing their phones will be checked for anti-Maduro messages.

Government Crackdown

• The government has ordered police to arrest U.S. supporters.
• 14 journalists have been detained; some released, others still missing.

Maduro's Allies Dig In

• Videos show armed men vowing to protect Venezuela's resources.
• Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, a close Maduro ally, leads these groups.

Maduro's Claims

• Currently in the U.S., Maduro claims he is a "prisoner of war."
• Supporters in Venezuela pledge to fight for the country.

Businesses Reopen, but Anxiety Persists

• Shops and businesses have reopened, but fear remains.
• Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has taken charge, apologizing for U.S.-caused suffering.
• Many Venezuelans feel disappointed, hoping Maduro's capture would bring change.

Constitutional Uncertainty

• The constitution requires elections within 30 days if the president is unable to serve.
• The Supreme Court rules Maduro's absence is temporary, allowing the vice president to govern for up to six months.

Calls for Democratic Transition

• Opposition leader María Corina Machado warns of alarming crackdowns.
• She advocates for a transition to democracy, but elections are not yet discussed.

Diverging Opinions

• Some, like Aurora, hope for change.
• Others, like a local sports coach, wish for calm.
• Many fear the U.S. will decide Venezuela's future instead of holding fair elections.