Thousands of supporters of ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro marched in Caracas on Tuesday, demanding his freedom. The demonstration occurred one month after a US military operation led to his removal and subsequent transfer to New York to face drug charges.
Government Response and Political Tightrope
The march, organized by the government, stretched for several hundred metres and was accompanied by music. Interim president Delcy Rodriguez is navigating a complex political landscape, attempting to maintain support from both Washington and those loyal to Maduro within Venezuela.
Demonstrators, including many public sector workers, carried photos of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who was also seized during the US raid. Maduro’s son, Nicolas “Nicolasito” Maduro Guerra, a deputy in Venezuela’s National Assembly, stated, “These people are not American. We have achieved a profound anti-imperialist consciousness.”
Economic and Political Shifts
US President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to work with Rodriguez, contingent on her cooperation regarding access to Venezuela’s oil reserves. Under pressure, Rodriguez has begun releasing political prisoners and opening the country’s nationalized oil industry to private investment.
The arrival of American envoy Laura Dogu in Caracas on Saturday signaled a rekindling of diplomatic ties. Rodriguez has outlined a three-phase plan for Venezuela, aiming for a “friendly, stable, prosperous and democratic” future, describing recent conversations with US officials as “frank.”
Calls for Amnesty and Reconciliation
Alongside pro-Maduro demonstrations, hundreds of university students and relatives of political prisoners marched, urging the swift approval of an amnesty law promised by Rodriguez. Rodriguez stated she is working “intensely” on the law, hoping it will address “political violence” and “extremism.”
However, the amnesty law has yet to be debated in parliament, led by Jorge Rodriguez, the interim president’s brother and a staunch supporter of Chavez’s political movement. Opposition deputy Stalin Gonzalez anticipates the first debate on Thursday, expressing hope that the amnesty will foster “reconciliation, coexistence, peace and democracy.”
Anti-government protests have been infrequent since the crackdown following Maduro’s contested re-election in 2024, which led to the imprisonment of over 2,000 people. Protesters chanted, “Freedom is in the streets and no one can stop it!” The opposition continues to call for fresh elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the US military operation that led to Maduro’s ouster?
The source states Maduro was ousted in a deadly US military operation, but does not specify the reasons behind the operation beyond drug charges.
What is Delcy Rodriguez’s current position in Venezuela?
Delcy Rodriguez is the interim president of Venezuela, having previously served as Maduro’s vice president.
What is the significance of Venezuela opening its oil sector to private investment?
Opening Venezuela’s oil sector to private investment is a key condition set by US President Donald Trump for continued cooperation with interim president Delcy Rodriguez, particularly regarding access to Venezuela’s oil reserves.
How will the interplay between the demands of Maduro supporters, the interim government’s actions, and US interests shape Venezuela’s future?
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