Venezuela's Supreme Court Appoints Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as Interim Leader Following U.S. Capture of Maduro

Venezuela's Supreme Court has directed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to step in as the nation's acting president, following the dramatic U.S. military operation that led to the arrest and removal of President Nicolás Maduro from the country.

In a late Saturday ruling, the court mandated that Rodríguez "temporarily assume and fulfil all responsibilities, obligations, and authorities associated with the presidency... to ensure governmental stability and the full protection of the nation."

The decision comes amid escalating tensions after U.S. forces executed a major assault on Venezuela, detaining Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores. President Donald Trump revealed the mission, dubbed 'Operation Absolute Resolve,' via social media shortly after the raid. Venezuelan authorities denounced the action as an "imperialist aggression" and called on the public to mobilise in protest.

Under such circumstances, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, alongside Interior Minister Remigio Ceballos Ichaso and Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López, might oversee a reformed administration that continues the leftist policies established by the late Hugo Chávez, albeit without Maduro at the helm.

This outcome could appeal to U.S. military leaders wary of prolonged troop commitments and to international stakeholders concerned about instability, reports stated.

However, it would provide minimal relief to Venezuela's opposition factions or to neighbouring countries strained by ongoing refugee crises.

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