Venezuela has sworn in former vice president Delcy Rodriguez as interim president. The move followed the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces and his transfer to New York for trial.
Rodriguez took the oath of office on Monday. She spoke during a special session of the National Assembly. She said she accepted the role “in the name of all Venezuelans.”
Parliament backs Rodriguez amid crisis
In her address, Rodriguez said she felt “pain over the kidnapping of our heroes.” She referred to Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are in US custody.
Lawmakers condemned the US military operation. They also pledged full support for Rodriguez as interim leader. During the session, parliament re-elected Jorge Rodriguez, her brother, as speaker.
As proceedings began, lawmakers chanted “Let’s go, Nico!” The slogan featured prominently during Maduro’s disputed 2024 campaign.
US action sparks backlash
US forces launched strikes on Caracas early Saturday. Acting on President Donald Trump’s orders, they seized Maduro and his wife and flew them to New York.
The operation shocked Venezuela and drew global reactions. Senior lawmaker Fernando Soto Rojas criticised Washington’s role.
“The president of the United States claims to be the prosecutor, the judge, and the policeman of the world,” he said.
Court, military endorse interim rule
Venezuela’s Supreme Court ordered Rodriguez to assume office in an acting capacity on Saturday. The military announced its support a day later.
Maduro’s son, Nicolas Maduro Guerra, also pledged loyalty to the interim president. He said the country was “in good hands” until his parents return.
Rodriguez offers talks as Trump warns
Rodriguez later signalled willingness to cooperate with Washington. She said engagement could occur under specific conditions. US officials responded cautiously. President Trump warned Rodriguez could face severe consequences if she ignored US demands on reforms and oil access.
The developments have deepened uncertainty in Venezuela. Meanwhile, political tensions between Caracas and Washington continue to rise.
