Delcy Rodríguez has assumed leadership in Venezuela after Nicolás Maduro, her political ally, was apprehended by the United States in a military operation and transferred to New York City to face criminal charges. The high court of Venezuela directed Rodríguez to take on the role of interim president, a move supported by the country’s military, leading to her inauguration on Monday.
Prior to her presidency, Rodríguez served as Maduro’s vice president, overseeing Venezuela’s oil-dependent economy and intelligence service since 2018. She also held the position of foreign minister from 2014 to 2017. Rodríguez is a 56-year-old lawyer and politician with a longstanding involvement in the socialist movement initiated by Maduro’s predecessor, Hugo Chávez.
Rodríguez has faced sanctions from both the United States and Canada for her role in supporting Maduro’s regime. She has established strong ties with U.S. Republicans in the oil industry and Wall Street, aiming to resist U.S.-led regime change efforts. Additionally, she has maintained a close relationship with Venezuela’s military, which historically plays a crucial role in the country’s political landscape.
The interim president’s stance towards the U.S. administration has evolved from initial defiance to a more conciliatory tone, expressing a willingness to collaborate within the bounds of international law. However, President Trump has issued warnings to Rodríguez, urging compliance with U.S. demands related to Venezuela’s oil industry and drug trafficking.
The political situation in Venezuela remains tense, with questions arising about the constitutional process for the country’s leadership transition. While there is a constitutional requirement for an election within 30 days in case the president becomes permanently unavailable, the Supreme Court has declared Maduro’s absence as temporary, allowing Rodríguez to assume power without a specified time limit.
Despite calls for a peaceful and democratic transition of power in Venezuela from international leaders like Prime Minister Mark Carney, uncertainty prevails within the country as Maduro’s loyalists retain control, prompting Venezuelans to prepare for potential instability by stocking up on essential supplies.