Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured by U.S. forces on March 30, 2024, in a significant military operation that has sparked immediate condemnation from top officials in Venezuela. The capture, described by Maduro’s administration as an “illegal and illegitimate kidnapping,” raises questions about the future leadership of the country and the direction of U.S.-Venezuelan relations.
Shortly after the operation, which President Donald Trump characterized as a “large scale strike,” Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez addressed the nation, asserting that Maduro remains “the only president of Venezuela.” In her televised speech, Rodriguez condemned the U.S. action as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and demanded the immediate release of both Maduro and his wife.
Trump indicated that the U.S. intends to play a significant role in Venezuela’s governance, stating in a press conference that the U.S. will “run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” He mentioned that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had communicated with Rodríguez, suggesting a potential collaboration, although Rodríguez has expressed strong resistance to U.S. intervention.
Venezuelan Government Mobilizes in Response
In the wake of Maduro’s capture, Venezuela’s government activated its national defense plans. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López announced the deployment of military forces across the country, emphasizing resistance against what he termed “the worst aggression” Venezuela has faced. He did not directly mention Maduro’s capture but framed the military response as a defense of national sovereignty.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello urged calm among the populace, discouraging panic in the face of what he termed an invasion. Tarek William Saab, the Attorney General, called the operation a “vile and cowardly attack,” claiming that innocent civilians were harmed during the military action. Additionally, Venezuelan diplomats have requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the U.S. intervention.
Opposition Leaders Call for Transition
In contrast to the Maduro administration’s resistance, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado welcomed the president’s ouster, declaring, “Venezuelans, the time for freedom has come!” She called for Edmundo Gonzalez, who ran against Maduro in the disputed 2024 elections, to be recognized as Venezuela’s legitimate president. Machado emphasized the need for a democratic transition and mobilization of the opposition.
Despite the enthusiasm among opposition leaders, Trump expressed skepticism about Machado’s ability to lead, stating that she lacks sufficient support. In the same press conference, he acknowledged her as a “very nice woman” but highlighted concerns regarding her influence.
As the situation unfolds, it remains uncertain how Venezuela will navigate this transition and what role existing political figures will play. The U.S. has yet to clarify its plans for governance, but Trump’s remarks indicate a desire to ensure that the country’s vast oil resources are utilized effectively.
The international community is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela, where the tension between U.S. intervention and local sovereignty continues to escalate. As the nation grapples with this unprecedented change, the implications for the Venezuelan people and regional stability are profound.
