Pakistan, Jan. 3 -- Venezuelans woke to explosions and thick smoke after US forces captured President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday. Streets in Caracas were largely empty. Residents scrambled to understand who now controls the oil-rich nation.

Security forces patrolled near the Miraflores presidential palace and other key areas. Smoke rose from La Guaira port and Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Air Base. Most people stayed home, checking phones for updates or buying groceries in case the unrest continues.

Some opposition supporters expressed relief and excitement. Jairo Chacin, a mechanic in Maracaibo, said he felt "a mix of fear and joy" while waiting in line for supplies. Others reported seeing flare-like lights and hearing planes at...