Venezuela’s armed forces have formally recognised Delcy Rodríguez as the country’s interim president, a development confirmed by Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López during a televised address on Sunday, 4 January.
The announcement comes in the wake of a dramatic operation late last Friday, 2 January, when President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were reportedly seized in Caracas during a military action conducted by the United States. Both Maduro and Flores are currently being held in a federal detention facility in New York City, according to sources.
Within hours of the reported abduction, Venezuela’s Supreme Court moved swiftly, declaring Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as the acting head of state. Defence Minister Padrino López emphasised the military’s full support for the Supreme Court’s decision.
“The Supreme Court has appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as Venezuela’s interim president for a period of 90 days,” Padrino López stated. “The armed forces fully support this decision. I urge the citizens of Venezuela to resume their daily lives and maintain calm during this transition.”
This extraordinary sequence of events marks an unprecedented moment in Venezuela’s political landscape, as the country confronts a leadership vacuum at the highest level of government. Analysts have highlighted the potential implications for both domestic stability and international relations, noting the heightened tensions between Venezuela and the United States.
To provide a clearer perspective, the key developments are summarised below:
| Date | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 January 2026 | Late-night operation in Caracas; President Maduro and wife Cilia Flores reportedly abducted | Conducted by U.S. forces; currently detained in New York |
| 3 January 2026 | Supreme Court convenes; Vice President Delcy Rodríguez named interim president | Immediate legal response to leadership vacuum |
| 4 January 2026 | Defence Minister Padrino López announces military recognition of Rodríguez | 90-day interim term confirmed |
Observers warn that the situation remains fluid, with uncertainty surrounding the duration of Rodríguez’s interim presidency and the potential for diplomatic repercussions. Meanwhile, Venezuelans are urged to maintain calm as the government, military, and judiciary navigate this unprecedented political crisis.