Venezuela’s Crisis Explained
In a dramatic escalation of the crisis gripping Venezuela, former President Nicolás Maduro has appeared at a Manhattan federal court to face serious U.S. charges, after being captured by U.S. forces
On 3 January the United States launched a large-scale military operation in Caracas that resulted in the seizure and extradition of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, to New York. The raid, involving U.S. special forces and air operations, was part of an effort to arrest Maduro on longstanding drug and weapons charges.
With Maduro detained abroad, Venezuela’s Supreme Court has ordered Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume the role of interim president, a move backed by the Venezuelan military. Rodríguez, a long-time Maduro ally and former oil minister, now leads the government amid intense international scrutiny.
Rodríguez initially condemned the U.S. operation as a violation of international law but has since softened her tone, signalling a willingness to pursue diplomatic dialogue with the U.S. — a significant shift in rhetoric considering Venezuela’s historically adversarial relationship with Washington.
For the momement the Trump administration claims it will not directly govern Venezuela but has warned Rodríguez against non-cooperation. Trump even suggested the possibility of additional military action if political and regional partners do not align with U.S. objectives.
EU has cautiously welcomed the events
The European Union has cautiously welcomed the events as a potential opportunity for democratic transition, though it has stopped short of endorsing the U.S. approach. Meanwhile, leaders across Latin America and global institutions are deeply divided over the legality of the U.S. intervention.
Reports from Cuban authorities confirm that 32 Cuban military personnel were killed during the U.S. raid, prompting mourning and further tensions between Havana and Washington.
Maduro’s legal battle in the United States is just beginning.
Meanwhile Rodriguez’s interim presidency faces critical tests — managing a fractured economy, navigating foreign pressure, and confronting expectations for free and fair elections, which U.S. officials say should be part of the country’s democratic future.
The United Nations Security Council is set to discuss the situation, particularly questions over sovereignty and international law. Observers warn that Venezuela’s political and humanitarian crises could deepen before stability returns.
By ANASUYA ROY