Delcy Rodríguez has assumed the role of leader in Venezuela after Nicolás Maduro, her ally, was apprehended by the United States and taken to New York City to face criminal charges. The high court of Venezuela directed Rodríguez to take on the position of interim president, and she was officially sworn in on Monday.
Having served as Maduro’s vice president since 2018, Rodríguez had been overseeing Venezuela’s oil-dependent economy and intelligence service. She also held the position of foreign minister between 2014 and 2017. Rodríguez, a 56-year-old lawyer and politician, has been deeply involved in representing the socialist revolution initiated by Maduro’s predecessor, Hugo Chávez.
Rodríguez has established strong connections with U.S. Republicans in the oil industry and Wall Street and has a close affiliation with the military, which historically plays a pivotal role in resolving political conflicts in Venezuela.
Following Trump’s announcement that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela temporarily, there have been discussions about the future relationship between Rodríguez and the Trump administration. Rodríguez initially demanded the return of Maduro and criticized the U.S. government, but later expressed willingness to collaborate for mutual development within the bounds of international law.
Venezuela’s constitution mandates an election within 30 days in cases of the president’s permanent unavailability. However, the Supreme Court deemed Maduro’s absence as temporary, allowing Rodríguez to assume power without a specified time limit, leading to speculations about her intentions.
Amidst the political developments, Maduro’s opponents in Venezuela have refrained from celebrating, as his loyalists retain power and the military shows no signs of dissent. Reports suggest that Venezuelans are stocking up on essential supplies in anticipation of potential instability.
Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the need for a peaceful and Venezuelan-led transition process respecting the democratic will of the Venezuelan people.