Who’s in Charge in Venezuela Now — Leadership After Maduro’s Capture
US Delta Force captured President Nicolas Maduro January 3, 2026 transporting him New York detention. Venezuela Supreme Court immediately ordered Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assume all presidential powers acting capacity. Rodríguez chaired National Defense Council meeting same day demanding Maduro release. Power transition underway amid US-Venezuela tensions.
Maduro Captured & Transported to US
Delta Force raided Caracas residence early January 3 capturing Maduro wife Cilia Flores. Helicopters transported pair USS Iwo Jima then New York Southern District custody. Trump confirmed operation success stating US would oversee transition. Maduro faces 2020 narco-terrorism indictment $50 million bounty.
Interim Government & Delcy Rodríguez Role
Venezuela Supreme Court invoked constitutional succession ordering Rodríguez exercise presidential duties. Longtime Maduro ally, Rodríguez served vice president since 2018 overseeing oil economy, intelligence. Lawyer brother Jorge Rodríguez National Assembly president follows succession line. Diosdado Cabello retains Interior Minister role military loyalty.
Rodríguez convened cabinet condemning US “aggression” demanding couple release. Trump claimed Secretary Rubio spoke Rodríguez indicating cooperation willingness.
What the Venezuela Constitution Says
1999 Constitution Articles 223-229 govern presidential absence:
| Position | Successor | Term Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Executive VP Delcy Rodríguez | 30 days new election |
| 2nd | Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez | Temporary |
| 3rd | Supreme Court President | Emergency |
Absolute absence triggers 30-day election call. Opposition disputes 2024 election legitimacy claiming Edmundo González Urrutia rightful president.
International Reactions to Transition
US Trump: “Rodríguez willing cooperate making Venezuela great again.” Opposition Machado Nobel winner eyes power vacuum. Russia China silent watching oil assets. EU calls elections verification. Colombia Brazil monitor border stability. UN Security Council debates legality.
What This Means for Venezuelans
Oil-rich nation 28 million faces uncertainty. Rodríguez continuity maintains PSUV control short-term. Opposition rallies demand González inauguration. Military loyalty splits possible. Oil production PDVSA operations continue unaffected strikes targeted leadership residences. Economic sanctions relief discussions emerge US cooperation.
Street protests Caracas demand clarity. Regional migration pressures ease potential stability. International oil markets watch PDVSA output stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who leads Venezuela after Maduro?
Supreme Court appointed Delcy Rodríguez interim president constitutional succession.
New elections when?
Constitution requires 30 days presidential absence triggering vote.
Venezuela navigates leadership transition Delcy Rodríguez steering interim government. US cooperation signals potential sanctions relief oil restart. Opposition watches closely. Situation develops rapidly.
Updated January 04, 2026 3:03 PM IST. Rodríguez holds Defense Council meeting.
