The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces has sparked immediate and vehement condemnation from top officials in his government. The operation, described by U.S. President Donald Trump as a “large-scale strike,” aims to address allegations of drug trafficking against Maduro. This significant event marks a critical moment in Venezuelan politics, effectively ending Maduro’s nearly 13-year rule that began after the death of Hugo Chávez.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez characterized the military action as a “barbaric” and “illegal kidnapping,” asserting it undermines Venezuela’s sovereignty. In a televised address, she called for the “immediate release” of both Maduro and his wife, proclaiming him “the only president of Venezuela.” Rodríguez’s comments came alongside Trump’s remarks about potential collaboration with her, suggesting she is “willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again.”
As the U.S. plans its approach to governing Venezuela, the exact structure of leadership remains unclear. Trump indicated that members of his administration would play significant roles in this transition, but the involvement of existing Venezuelan officials remains uncertain. Rodríguez expressed her government’s openness to dialogue, referencing Maduro’s earlier willingness to negotiate with the U.S. regarding drug trafficking. Nevertheless, she firmly rejected any cooperation that could lead to foreign control, emphasizing, “We will never again be slaves, that we will never again be a colony of any empire.”
Venezuelan Government Activates Defense Measures
In response to the U.S. operation, the Venezuelan government has activated national defense plans and declared a “State of External Disturbance,” essentially a state of emergency. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López announced the deployment of military forces across the country, urging resistance against what he termed the “worst aggression” Venezuela has faced. “They’ve attacked us but they will not subdue us,” he stated.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello called for calm, urging citizens not to succumb to despair. Attorney General Tarek William Saab denounced the U.S. action as a “vile and cowardly attack,” claiming some innocent people were harmed during the operation. Venezuelan diplomats have sought an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to condemn the U.S. actions, with Foreign Minister Yvan Gil accusing the United States of attempting to seize Venezuela’s natural resources.
Opposition Leaders Prepare for Transition
The situation has galvanized opposition leaders, with María Corina Machado celebrating Maduro’s ouster. She called for recognition of Edmundo Gonzalez as Venezuela’s legitimate president and urged the armed forces to support him. Gonzalez, who faced Maduro in the controversial 2024 election, has the backing of many international observers who criticized the election results for alleged fraud.
“Today we are ready to assert our mandate and take power,” Machado declared. Gonzalez echoed her sentiments on social media, stating, “[W]e are ready for the great operation of the reconstruction of our nation.” Yet, Trump expressed skepticism about Machado’s capacity to lead effectively, noting her lack of support. “She’s a very nice woman, but she doesn’t have the respect,” he commented during a press conference.
The unfolding political landscape in Venezuela poses significant questions about the future governance of the country, especially regarding the potential for a safe and effective transition of power. As the situation develops, both Venezuelan officials and opposition leaders are preparing for the challenges ahead, highlighting a nation at a critical crossroads.
