Six months after the US raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, locals report little improvement in the country's dire economic situation.

Despite claims by former President Donald Trump that Venezuela is now 'happy' under US control, Venezuelans like Patricia Mata and Iris Useche describe ongoing struggles with food shortages, electricity cuts, and stifled freedom of expression.

The US takeover of Venezuela's oil industry has not translated to tangible benefits for the population, with social worker Useche questioning where the oil revenue is going.Meanwhile, acting president Delcy Rodriguez manages domestic affairs, including responding to recent earthquakes that displaced thousands.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado calls for fresh elections, but many Venezuelans remain trapped in uncertainty, unsure if Trump's administration or Rodriguez's government truly controls the country.The article highlights the deepening crisis, with families forced to use makeshift stoves and distrust growing toward authorities.Despite the political upheaval, the economic collapse continues, with inflation and poverty rates remaining at crisis levels.