Venezuela’s Furious Street Forces Say They’re Ready to ‘Fight’ After U.S. Raid

In Venezuela, armed street groups and protest forces have declared they are ready to “fight” in response to a recent U.S. military raid in Caracas that targeted government forces and culminated in the capture of former president Nicolás Maduro, according to eyewitness reports and on-the-ground coverage.

Explosions and the roar of warplanes over the Venezuelan capital prompted some locals and armed supporters to arm themselves and patrol streets after dark, saying they feel compelled to respond to what they describe as foreign aggression. These groups — including colectivos and other militia-style factions — have historically played a tense role in Venezuela’s domestic security picture and have been known to back government positions during unrest.

The U.S. raid, which aimed to apprehend Maduro on international criminal charges, has reshaped the country’s political dynamics and sparked deep resentment among pro-government factions. While the interim leadership installed after the raid has tried to emphasize order and cooperation with Washington, hardline elements have frantically mobilized in several neighborhoods, vowing resistance if “external forces” are seen as trying to impose control.

International observers warn that such rhetoric could escalate tensions and lead to localized clashes, especially if poorly coordinated groups act independently without command structure. Diplomatic channels remain strained, and Venezuela’s security environment has become increasingly unpredictable since early January, when Maduro was removed and flown to the United States to face charges in New York.

For now, Venezuela’s furious street forces are a reflection of fractured public sentiment — part grievance, part warning — in a country already grappling with political churn and geopolitical pressure.