Caracas, Venezuela — Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets of Caracas on Saturday, one week after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a dramatic operation that has plunged the country into renewed political uncertainty.
Pro-Maduro supporters marched through parts of the capital, waving Venezuelan flags and holding placards bearing the former leader’s image. Protesters chanted slogans condemning the United States and demanding Maduro’s immediate release, describing his arrest as a “kidnapping” and a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.
The demonstrations, though vocal, were relatively modest compared to the massive rallies once mobilized by Maduro during his years in power, highlighting growing divisions within his support base.
Maduro was apprehended last week during a U.S. military operation and flown to the United States, where he is expected to face federal charges. His capture marked an unprecedented escalation in U.S. involvement in Venezuelan affairs and drew mixed reactions both at home and abroad.
In the aftermath, an interim government has assumed control and signaled a willingness to reset relations with Washington. Officials confirmed that preliminary talks are underway to restore diplomatic ties, reopen embassies, and explore cooperation on key issues, including oil exports.
Meanwhile, security remains tense in parts of the country. Authorities have increased patrols around protest areas, while the U.S. government has advised its citizens to leave Venezuela, citing safety concerns.
The protests underscore the deep political polarization gripping Venezuela as it navigates a fragile transition following Maduro’s removal. Analysts say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the country moves toward stability or deeper unrest amid competing domestic pressures and international scrutiny.
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