Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez assumes leadership of the nation

Venezuela’s Vice President Sworn In as Interim President Amid US Military Strikes

US President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela’s Vice President Delcy Rodriguez had been sworn in as interim president following the sudden chaos caused by the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro. The US military conducted airstrikes on Caracas and other areas on Saturday, prompting Trump to express his support for Rodriguez.

In a surprise move, Trump praised Rodriguez, stating that she was “essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again.” However, Rodriguez quickly responded with criticism of the US military action, describing it as “brutal aggression” and calling for Maduro’s immediate release. On state television, Rodriguez stated, “There is only one president in this country, and his name is Nicolas Maduro.”

Rodriguez, 56, has a long history of representing Venezuela on the world stage, particularly under late President Hugo Chavez’s socialist “revolution.” She has held various positions, including communication and information minister, foreign minister, and head of a pro-government Constituent Assembly. Rodriguez’s brother also holds a key role in government as the head of the National Assembly.

The US government had previously awarded Nobel Peace Prize to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who was seen as a potential alternative to Maduro. However, Trump snubbed Machado, instead supporting Rodriguez. Rodriguez has developed strong ties with Republicans in the US oil industry and on Wall Street, which has given her significant influence over Venezuela’s economy.

As interim president, Rodriguez will oversee the management of Venezuela’s economy, including the oil ministry, which was added to her portfolio by Maduro earlier this year. The US government has imposed sanctions on Venezuela’s oil industry, and Rodriguez is tasked with navigating these challenges.

Source: Al Jazeera