image sourced from original article at Following the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power by the United States, President Donald Trump has chosen to back Delcy Rodríguez, a longtime Maduro loyalist, as Venezuela's interim leader. This decision marks a departure from expectations that the U.S. would support opposition figure María Corina Machado, who holds a strong popular mandate and international recognition.
Administration officials say the move is intended to prevent a power vacuum and maintain stability during a fragile transition, even as it complicates Washington's support for Venezuela's democratic opposition. Intelligence assessments reportedly found Rodríguez better positioned to secure the loyalty of Venezuela's security services, while Machado lacks significant support within the country.
Trump has warned Rodríguez to cooperate or face severe consequences, emphasizing the need for immediate stability over symbolic democratic gestures. Critics argue that Rodríguez's authority is rooted in elite bargaining rather than public support, raising concerns about her legitimacy and the risk of unrest. Meanwhile, reports from Venezuela indicate rising instability, with armed gangs on the streets and journalists detained in the aftermath of Maduro's capture.
