In a dramatic and swift political shift, Venezuela's National Assembly has appointed former vice president Delcy Rodriguez as the country's interim leader. This move comes directly after the unprecedented capture of sitting President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by United States forces.
A Swift Transition of Power
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday, with Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez officially confirming her appointment as acting president. The National Assembly acted rapidly to ensure constitutional continuity following the shocking detention of the nation's top leaders. Delcy Rodriguez, a longtime political figure and former vice president under Maduro, took the oath to lead the country during this turbulent period.
Rodriguez's First Address and Calls for Unity
In her first address to the nation, the new acting president spoke passionately about the attacks Venezuela has endured and the profound suffering inflicted on its citizens. She framed the situation as a national crisis, referring to Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores as "hostages" currently held in the United States.
Striking a conciliatory tone, Rodriguez issued a strong call for unity. She urged all sectors of Venezuelan society, including political opponents, to come together in the face of this external intervention. Her speech aimed to consolidate national sentiment and present a united front against what she described as foreign aggression.
International Tensions and Trump's Threats
The political upheaval in Caracas has triggered a significant escalation in international tensions. The event coincides with fresh threats issued by US President Donald Trump, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. The capture of a sitting head of state by foreign forces is a rare and extreme action in modern international relations, setting a volatile precedent.
Analysts suggest this move marks a dangerous new chapter in the long-standing confrontation between the US administration and the Venezuelan government. The situation is being closely watched by global powers and regional allies, with many fearing it could spark a wider crisis. The immediate focus now is on the stability of the Venezuelan government under its new interim leadership and the international response to these extraordinary events.
