The son of the ousted Venezuelan leader, Nicolás Maduro Guerra – known as “Nicolasito” – publicly pledged his full support to the newly appointed interim president, Delcy Rodríguez. This declaration came amidst a period of immense upheaval following the capture of his father and stepmother by U.S. forces.
Maduro Guerra, a legislator himself, expressed unwavering commitment, stating his family would stand firm alongside Rodríguez as she assumes leadership. His words were delivered during a planned swearing-in ceremony for the National Assembly, a body set to serve until 2031.
The capture of the former president and his wife, Cilia Flores, has ignited international controversy. Maduro Guerra vehemently condemned the U.S. action, labeling it a “kidnapping” and warning that no nation is truly secure if such acts are normalized.
He argued that allowing the seizure of a head of state sets a dangerous precedent, suggesting any country resisting external pressure could become a target. This, he insisted, transcends regional concerns and poses a direct threat to global political stability.
Delcy Rodríguez, who served as vice president since 2018, acknowledged the suffering of the Venezuelan people following the military operation. Despite her objections to the intervention, she indicated a willingness to engage with the current administration.
The operation itself, described as “large-scale” by the U.S. government, resulted in the detention of Maduro and Flores at their residence in Caracas. They are now awaiting trial in New York on charges of narco-terrorism.
The move has sparked a global reaction, drawing both praise and criticism. While some nations, like Argentina, expressed support, others – notably China and Russia – strongly condemned the U.S. intervention, questioning its legality.
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, hailed the operation as a victory for justice and a turning point for her nation. She predicted January 3rd would be remembered as the day tyranny was defeated.
Machado envisions a revitalized Venezuela, one that serves as a security ally, dismantles criminal networks, and becomes a regional energy hub. Crucially, she aims to facilitate the return of millions of Venezuelans displaced by the ongoing crisis, rebuilding a prosperous and open society.
Having spent over a year in hiding, Machado has vowed to return to Venezuela and lead the charge towards a new future. Her commitment signals a determined effort to reshape the country’s destiny after years of turmoil.
