Eight months after US forces detained Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Venezuelans are expressing relief at his removal but growing impatience over continuing economic hardship. The interim government led by former vice president Delcy Rodriguez has pursued reforms, yet households still face uncertain incomes, soaring food prices, hyperinflation and recurring power cuts. Pastry shop owner Marbelis Daliz said expectations after Maduro’s removal had been replaced by disappointment.

Annual inflation measured in bolivars is now about 575 percent, while the currency’s sharp depreciation has left the economy effectively dollar-dependent since 2019. Rights activist Zaida Mujica said removing Maduro had not removed authoritarianism or produced benefits for ordinary people. Rodriguez, described as operating under Washington’s effective control, has opened several sectors to foreign and private investment; official figures say daily oil output has risen about 29.8 percent since January.

Two earthquakes struck northern Venezuela one minute apart on June 24, killing more than 6,500 people, injuring many others and destroying hundreds of buildings. Daliz said people are less afraid to discuss politics than under Maduro. The government says 1,046 political prisoners have been released since January, while Foro Penal says about 400 remain jailed.