Political dynamics in Venezuela have taken a troubling turn as the regime formerly led by ousted President Nicolás Maduro appears to maintain its grip on power. Following the unexpected capture of Maduro by U.S. special forces, many citizens initially viewed the event as a potential catalyst for change. However, recent developments have dampened hopes for a swift transition to a new government.
In the wake of Maduro’s capture over the weekend, there has been little indication of political reform. As of now, there have been no releases of political prisoners, and the government has intensified its crackdown on dissent. Reports indicate that authorities have arrested individuals who celebrated Maduro’s capture. The streets of Caracas are reportedly patrolled by masked paramilitary groups known as “colectivos,” who support the government, while military intelligence agents in civilian clothing conduct operations and set up roadblocks.
The continuity of the existing regime was underscored by a recent classified intelligence assessment, which revealed that key figures in Maduro’s administration, including Delcy Rodriguez, who was sworn in as interim president on Monday, are positioned to maintain stability in the country. This assessment reportedly influenced U.S. views, including those of President Donald Trump, who had previously dismissed exiled opposition leader Maria Corina Machado as a viable successor.
For residents like Michelle, a 34-year-old architect in Caracas, the lack of change is disheartening. She expressed her disillusionment, stating, “I thought that when that day came I would feel very happy. But that’s not the case.” Her concerns reflect a broader sentiment among Venezuelans who feel caught in a geopolitical struggle, where their needs seem secondary to international interests. “We realize that we are just another piece on the board in the struggle between powers,” Michelle added, hoping for a future that prioritizes the well-being of the Venezuelan people.
Despite the prevailing pessimism, not all opposition supporters share the same outlook. Luis Mata, a former political prisoner and human rights advocate now living in exile, emphasized the importance of patience and perseverance in the fight for change. “It’s like eating a pizza — they go slice by slice. We have to trust the process,” he told NBC News. Mata, who was detained after the controversial presidential election on July 28, 2024, believes that meaningful change is on the horizon.
The political climate remains tense, particularly regarding the fate of the estimated 800 to 900 political prisoners still detained following the election. Mata, who was charged with multiple crimes and spent four months in prison, remains optimistic about the future of Venezuela, asserting that, “Freedom is about to arrive.”
As the regime continues to project a sense of stability, Rodriguez’s recent inauguration as interim president was marked by a display of solidarity among top officials. A photo released by the presidential palace shows Rodriguez flanked by her brother, Jorge Rodriguez, the president of the National Assembly, and Diosdado Cabello, who oversees police and counterintelligence forces. This image counters statements from U.S. officials like James Story, the last U.S. ambassador to Venezuela, who remarked on the regime’s crackdown on perceived supporters of U.S. intervention.
Despite concerns regarding U.S. involvement in Venezuela, some citizens express a willingness to embrace change. Marlenis, a domestic worker in Caracas, articulated a sense of resignation after years of economic decline, stating, “If everything goes badly, people are already used to bad things.” Her perspective reflects a growing frustration among Venezuelans, who feel they have little left to lose.
The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, with the regime’s ability to suppress dissent raising questions about the future of democracy in the country. As international observers continue to monitor the developments, the voices of the Venezuelan people will be crucial in shaping the path forward.
