In the wake of the dramatic ouster of Nicolás Maduro, Delcy Rodríguez has officially stepped into the role of Interim President of Venezuela. The transition follows the detention of Maduro by U.S. forces during “Operation Southern Spear” on January 3, 2026.
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Following Maduro’s removal from the country, the Venezuelan Supreme Court (TSJ) invoked constitutional protocols to name Rodríguez—the standing Vice President—as the acting head of state. This move aims to maintain the existing government’s structure and prevent a total power vacuum.
Current Status of the Crisis
- Military Allegiance: The Venezuelan Armed Forces have pledged their support to Rodríguez, signaling that the “Chavismo” power structure remains intact for now.
- The Maduro Prosecution: Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores are currently in U.S. custody. Maduro is scheduled for his first court appearance in New York today, January 5, to face federal narco-terrorism charges.
- Government Rhetoric: President Rodríguez has condemned the U.S. intervention as an illegal “kidnapping,” maintaining that Maduro remains the legitimate leader in the eyes of her administration.
Geopolitical Impact
The situation has split the international community:
- The United States: Has expressed a desire to stabilize the region, with some officials suggesting a focus on securing Venezuela’s vital oil infrastructure.
- Global Reaction: Traditional allies like Russia and Cuba have denounced the operation as a breach of international law, while several Latin American neighbors remain on high alert.
Quick Profile: Delcy Rodríguez
| Detail | Description |
| Previous Role | Vice President of Venezuela (since 2018) |
| Experience | Former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Oil |
| Education | Lawyer with academic training in Paris and London |
| Political Stance | A staunch loyalist to the Bolivarian Revolution and a vocal critic of U.S. sanctions |
