Following a military operation by the U.S. to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, the U.S. government has reportedly warned key figures within the Venezuelan regime that they could become targets if demands are not met. According to sources cited by Reuters, Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela’s Minister of Interior and a prominent figure in the Chavismo movement, is among those facing potential action.
The current freedom of Cabello, considered a key player in the Venezuelan government, has drawn reactions from opposition groups who applauded the January 3rd U.S. operation. Some believe Cabello continues to wield considerable influence within the regime, maintaining legitimacy within Chavismo, including among the armed forces.
While the U.S. has not ruled out designating Cabello as a target, the current plan, as relayed by Reuters sources, involves cooperation with Delcy Rodríguez – despite a known rivalry between the two. The U.S. is reportedly considering options to remove Cabello from power, potentially through exile, or he could “face a similar fate to Maduro” if these demands aren’t met.
Venezuela’s Minister of Defense, Vladimir Padrino, has also been identified as a potential target should he obstruct U.S. objectives. This comes as the Chavismo movement rallies around Rodríguez, who assumed the presidency following Maduro’s capture, as ordered by the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court.
Venezuela’s Leadership in Transition
Three days after the U.S. military operation, the Chavismo movement has united behind Delcy Rodríguez, who stated, “there is no external agent governing the country.” Rodríguez, who swore an oath of office based on an order from the Supreme Court, faces the challenge of maintaining unity within Chavismo while responding to demands from the U.S. government, under threat of facing consequences “higher than those of Maduro.”
Rodríguez asserted, “We are here governing with the people, the Government of Venezuela governs our country, no one else, there is no external agent governing Venezuela.” She also stated her faith that her destiny is decided by God, in response to threats.
The military high command, led by Minister of Defense Vladimir Padrino López, has pledged support for the Supreme Court’s decision and guaranteed the country’s governability. Thousands of Chavista women marched in Caracas in support of Rodríguez and to demand the release of Maduro and Flores. Carmen Meléndez, the mayor of Caracas, who led the demonstration alongside Cabello, stated, “We tell our president in charge that she is not alone, here is an army of women who will accompany her to continue working so that our people feel attended to.”
Rodríguez, who has held key ministerial positions including Communications, Foreign Affairs, and Finance, lacks widespread popular support and has not held elected office beyond a role in the 2017 Constituent Assembly. She and her brother are both subject to U.S. Treasury sanctions for allegedly aiding Maduro in maintaining power.
The U.S. has stated a need for “total access” to Venezuela’s resources, including oil, and has not ruled out further military action. Rodríguez has extended an invitation for cooperation with the U.S., but has also maintained defiant rhetoric, insisting on securing the release of Maduro and Flores.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores?
According to the source, Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured in a U.S. military operation, though their current location and condition are not detailed.
Who is Delcy Rodríguez and what is her role?
Delcy Rodríguez is the current president in charge of Venezuela, having assumed the role following a decision by the Supreme Court. She previously held several ministerial positions and is now tasked with maintaining unity within Chavismo while responding to U.S. demands.
What is the U.S. government’s stated goal in Venezuela?
The U.S. government, according to the source, has stated its intention to maintain stability during a period of transition and seeks “total access” to Venezuela’s resources, including oil.
Given the complex interplay of internal Venezuelan politics and external pressure from the U.S., what impact will these developments have on the future stability of the region?
