CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — A tense calm prevailed in Venezuela on Sunday, January 4, 2026, just one day after President Nicolás Maduro was deposed and captured in an American military operation. The aftermath of the operation left many citizens uncertain about their future and what the political landscape would look like moving forward.
The capital city of Caracas was notably quiet, with few vehicles on the roads and most convenience stores, gas stations, and other businesses closed. This stark contrast to previous days, where long lines formed outside various establishments as residents stocked up on goods fearing potential chaos, highlighted the unease permeating the atmosphere. Roads, typically bustling with activity, were largely deserted, and security around Venezuela's presidential palace was notably tight, with armed civilians and military personnel present.
In La Guaira state, families were still cleaning up debris from explosions that occurred during the military operation targeting Maduro and his wife. Several buildings bore gaping holes where walls had been destroyed, leaving residents to grapple with the physical and emotional aftermath of the sudden upheaval.
The political shift in Venezuela has left citizens in a state of uncertainty, especially following President Donald Trump's declaration that the United States would "run" Venezuela with the assistance of Maduro's Vice President, Delcy Rodríguez. Despite these promises, many Venezuelans expressed confusion and concern about what the future holds, with some questioning the true implications of foreign intervention.
In a low-income neighborhood of eastern Caracas, Daniel Medalla, a 66-year-old construction worker, reflected on the situation while sitting outside a Catholic church, noting the absence of morning Mass due to the ongoing unrest. Medalla suggested the emptiness of the streets was less about fear of another strike and more about apprehension over potential government repression, particularly in light of a harsh crackdown during the previous year's contentious elections.
Despite the challenges, Medalla conveyed a sense of hope regarding Maduro's removal, stating, "We were longing for it." His sentiments echoed a feeling among various segments of society that change may finally be within reach, though it is overshadowed by a palpable fear of the unknown and potential repercussions that may follow in the wake of the military operation.
The events of January 4, 2026, mark a significant turning point in Venezuela’s tumultuous political history, raising questions about governance, stability, and the role of external forces in the nation’s affairs. As citizens sift through the debris of both their homes and their political landscape, the uncharted path ahead poses both challenges and possibilities for the people of Venezuela.
