Venezuela’s swift political shift sees the military backing Delcy Rodriguez amid Maduro’s capture.
Story Highlights
- Venezuela’s military appoints Delcy Rodriguez as acting leader following Maduro’s capture.
- US forces capture Maduro, transporting him to face charges in New York.
- Trump administration signals willingness to negotiate with Rodriguez’s regime.
- Venezuelan streets remain quiet but tension simmers over potential unrest.
Venezuelan Military Backs Delcy Rodriguez
In a dramatic turn of events, Venezuela’s military has recognized Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as the acting president following the capture of Nicolas Maduro by US forces. President Trump’s administration insists that Maduro faces serious narco-trafficking charges in the United States.
The military’s decision, led by Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, emphasizes the Venezuelan Supreme Court’s ruling, appointing Rodriguez for a 90-day period. This move marks a significant pivot, showcasing the military’s continued loyalty to Maduro’s inner circle while adjusting to the new circumstances.
Venezuela's military said it recognizes Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as the country's acting leader after Nicolas Maduro was extracted from Caracas by U.S. forces on Saturday.
— CBS News (@CBSNews) January 4, 2026
The operation took place in the early hours of January 3, 2026, when US forces conducted precise strikes on military targets in Caracas. This resulted in the capture of Maduro and his wife, bringing them to New York to face charges.
The military’s quick alignment with Rodriguez was accompanied by a televised statement denouncing the US action as a “cowardly kidnapping” and calling for a return to normalcy. However, the streets of Caracas remain largely deserted, reflecting an underlying apprehension among the population.
US and Venezuela: A Complex Relationship
President Trump’s administration has adopted a firm stance, warning Rodriguez of severe consequences should she choose to resist cooperation. At the same time, Trump has indicated a willingness to engage with Rodriguez’s government if key demands, including oil access, are met. This approach aligns with Trump’s broader strategy of avoiding nation-building while leveraging direct intervention to address specific threats to US interests.
The appointment of Rodriguez for a transitional period signals a potential shift in power dynamics, as the military maintains its support for the Chavismo legacy. The US holds significant leverage through Maduro’s capture, which could open avenues for negotiation, provided the new administration in Venezuela is willing to engage constructively.
Implications for Venezuela and Beyond
The immediate aftermath of these developments has left Venezuela in a state of uncertainty. While the military’s endorsement of Rodriguez aims to stabilize the situation, the long-term implications remain unclear. The potential for US-influenced reforms or oil deals exists, but persistent defiance by the Venezuelan government could prolong the crisis.
Economically, the prospect of US investment in Venezuela’s oil reserves could offer a lifeline for recovery. However, the social and political landscapes remain fraught with challenges as the country grapples with trauma from the strikes and the calls for a return to normal life.
The international community is closely monitoring these developments, with reactions varying from condemnation of US actions as “terrorism” to viewing the military’s pivot as a path towards stability. This situation underscores the complex interplay of power, sovereignty, and foreign intervention in Venezuela’s ongoing crisis.
