On the ground in Venezuela after Trump’s ‘operation’

In this episode of The Guardian's Today in Focus, the discussion centers on the significant political changes in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. A Caracas-based journalist, referred to as Anna for anonymity, shares her experiences as she recounts waking up to explosions, recognizing them as a U.S. operation to capture Maduro. Following his removal, Delce Rodriguez, his vice president, has been sworn in, leading to mixed feelings among Venezuelans as many see her as a continuation of the oppressive regime.

Public reaction has been cautious; while there were moments of celebration in the streets, hope is tempered with fear due to past heavy repression and skepticism regarding Rodriguez's capabilities for democratic transition. Anna points out the culprit of a more significant issue: the loss of control over their own destinies, with many still feeling the weight of an authoritarian regime even after Maduro's fall.

The episode also touches on U.S. interests concerning Venezuela's oil industry, highlighting Trump's focus on resource acquisition, which is viewed with distrust by many Venezuelans who see past interventions leading to suffering rather than liberation. The consequences of past decisions still linger, leaving citizens wary of foreign influence. Overall, the conversation reveals the complicated mix of optimism, skepticism, and concern among Venezuelans as they face a tumultuous new chapter in their political landscape.