Venezuela’s Supreme Court on Saturday appointed Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez as interim president following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces, according to a statement released by the court.
The decision was announced amid heightened political and security tensions after the US confirmed that Maduro was taken into custody during a military operation in Caracas and is being transferred to the United States to face criminal charges.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court said Rodríguez would assume interim leadership “to ensure continuity of the state, preserve constitutional order, and safeguard national sovereignty” while the country navigates what it described as an “extraordinary situation.”
Rodríguez, a close ally of Maduro and a key figure in his administration, addressed the nation shortly after the announcement, calling for calm and unity. She accused foreign powers of violating Venezuela’s sovereignty but said her government would work to maintain stability and protect public institutions.
The appointment has drawn mixed reactions domestically and internationally. Supporters of the government say the move is necessary to prevent a power vacuum, while opposition figures have questioned the legitimacy of the Supreme Court’s decision and renewed calls for a transitional government and fresh elections.
International response has been swift. Several countries expressed concern over the legality of recent developments, urging restraint and respect for international law, while others called for a peaceful and democratic transition in Venezuela.
Security has been tightened in Caracas and other major cities, with a heavy presence of police and military personnel around government buildings. Despite the uncertainty, public services were reported to be operating normally as authorities sought to project control.
As events continue to unfold rapidly, Venezuela’s political future remains uncertain, with growing scrutiny on how interim president Rodríguez will govern and how long the transitional arrangement will last.
