One month after a military intervention by the United States, Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez asserts the country has recovered, is at peace, and has made “important steps in the direction of national reconciliation.” “It is a great victory for the people that there is stability,” she stated from the Palacio de Miraflores, accompanied by her brother Jorge Rodríguez, head of Parliament, and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
A Month of Transition
Rodríguez characterized the last 30 days as a period of transformation, stating Venezuela has “transmuted and matured the impact of aggression from the United States into tranquility.” She claimed the Venezuelan people, with “great maturity,” overcame an attack intended to create chaos.
Rodríguez reported direct telephone conversations with U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, marking a turning point in communications between the two governments, guided by “interpersonal respect between the leaders.” The new Chargé d’Affaires, Laura Dogu, has arrived in Venezuela and met with officials at Miraflores, with Rodríguez emphasizing that disputes with the U.S. government must be resolved diplomatically.
Calls for Release of Maduro
Rodríguez stated there is a “national clamor” for the release of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were captured during the January 3rd operation and are currently imprisoned in New York. This followed a demonstration in Caracas, largely comprised of public sector workers, demanding the return of the Chavista leaders. Demonstrators chanted slogans such as “The homeland has arrived, peace has arrived, Venezuela needs Nicolás.”
Rodríguez was sworn in as acting president two days after the military intervention. Her interim role, authorized by the Supreme Court, is initially for 90 days, potentially extendable for another 90 days with parliamentary approval, after which elections should be called.
Economic and Legislative Developments
While the recent developments have been closely monitored in Washington, Rodríguez maintains that Venezuelan policy “must be nationalized among Venezuelans” and that the country seeks to preserve its sovereignty. A new hydrocarbons law, opening the door to private sector investment in the oil industry, has been passed, with revenues earmarked for social funds overseen by the United States.
The government has not increased the minimum wage in four years, replacing benefits with bonuses and eliminating collective bargaining agreements. Public services, particularly electricity, have been in crisis for over 15 years due to lack of maintenance and corruption, leading to ongoing power outages in some regions. Rodríguez acknowledged the need to address the “wounds of the economic blockade” and stated that recovery will take time.
Simultaneously, students have demonstrated for the swift drafting of an amnesty law announced by Rodríguez last week. Families of hundreds of political prisoners are continuing vigils outside prisons across the country, demanding their release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Nicolás Maduro?
Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured during a military operation on January 3rd and are currently imprisoned in New York, according to Delcy Rodríguez.
What is the role of Laura Dogu in Venezuela?
Laura Dogu is the new U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Venezuela and has already met with officials at Miraflores, signaling a potential shift towards diplomatic engagement.
What changes have been made to Venezuela’s oil industry?
A new hydrocarbons law has been passed, opening the door to private sector investment in the oil industry, with revenues directed to social funds overseen by the United States.
As Venezuela navigates this period of transition, what role will ongoing diplomatic discussions play in shaping the country’s future?
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