The recent political landscape in Venezuela has shifted dramatically, as reports emerge regarding Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. According to a Reuters report, multiple sources have indicated that Rodriguez is currently in Russia. However, Russian state media has denied these claims, casting doubt on her reported whereabouts.
Despite the claims of her fleeing the country, Rodriguez has continued to engage with Venezuelan state media, issuing several audio statements addressed to the nation. Following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, she has publicly demanded confirmation of his well-being. In her statements, Rodriguez asserted, “We demand immediate proof of life of President Nicolas Maduro and the first combatant Cilia Flores.” She also reiterated Maduro’s role as Venezuela’s “only president,” while condemning U.S. actions as “kidnapping” and “barbaric.”
Role of the Vice President in Transitional Governance
Under Venezuela’s constitutional framework, the vice president assumes the executive responsibilities in the event of the president’s temporary absence. This provision does not necessitate new elections unless the absence is classified as permanent. Despite her reported flight, Rodriguez has been sworn in as interim president during a covert ceremony but continues to advocate for Maduro’s legitimacy.
Other influential figures in Venezuela’s leadership, including Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and National Assembly head Jorge Rodriguez, who is also Delcy’s brother, remain active in Caracas. They have appeared on state media, advocating for resistance against perceived threats and urging the activation of national defense protocols.
Military Loyalty and International Dynamics
The loyalty of the Venezuelan military and security forces to the current regime appears largely intact. During the recent operation leading to Maduro’s capture, U.S. forces were reported to have effectively overwhelmed Venezuelan defenses, executing the operation with minimal casualties and no aircraft losses. This display of military might highlights the precarious nature of the Venezuelan government’s hold on power.
The influence of Cuba on Venezuela’s political and security apparatus remains significant. Cuba provides essential support ranging from intelligence sharing to military advisement, with operatives embedded within the Venezuelan armed forces and internal security services. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has underscored the challenges facing Cuban officials following Maduro’s capture, given the deep ties between the two nations.
In exchange for its support, Venezuela has traditionally supplied Cuba with subsidized oil. However, recent U.S. sanctions targeting oil shipments from Venezuela have severely disrupted this arrangement. Analysts have expressed concern that the continued decline in Venezuelan oil production could have dire consequences for Cuba’s economy and political stability.
The Future of Venezuela’s Political Landscape
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed intentions for the United States to take a leading role in Venezuelan affairs while an interim government is being established. Although he did not provide a detailed plan, he indicated a commitment to revitalizing Venezuela’s oil industry and did not dismiss the potential for military involvement.
As the situation in Venezuela continues to evolve, the international community remains attentive to developments, particularly regarding the roles of Rodriguez, the military, and the influence wielded by Cuba.