Maduro's Capture and the Power Vacuum in Venezuela
In a significant development, the authoritarian Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro was captured by U.S forces following a large-scale military strike against the Venezuelan government. This action has resulted in a power vacuum within the country, with various opposition figures, including the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, being touted as potential successors. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed doubts over Machado's ability to lead the country.
Background
Maduro had been ruling Venezuela with an iron fist, with his government being accused of various human rights abuses. His capture marks the most direct U.S. military action against a Latin American head of state in decades. María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, who enjoy the support of 70% of Venezuelans according to Jorge Jraissati, president of the Economic Inclusion Group, are widely believed to be the potential successors after Maduro's fall.
Key Developments
Following the capture of Maduro, Machado issued an open call for a transfer of power, urging the military to abandon Maduro’s government and recognize Edmundo González as president. The U.S., too, recognized González as the legitimate leader of Venezuela after he soundly defeated Maduro in the 2024 election.
However, President Donald Trump dismissed Machado as a potential national leader during a press conference, stating that it'd be very tough for her to be the leader due to lack of support and respect within the country.
Reactions and Implications
The capture of Maduro has garnered mixed reactions globally. While some nations, like Albania and Kosovo, applauded the U.S. action, others like Australia called for a peaceful, democratic transition
of power in Venezuela. Former Vice President Kamala Harris condemned the capture, calling it unlawful
and unwise.
Russian Senator Alexey Pushkov alleged that the U.S.'s strategic goal in Venezuela is control of its oil reserves. Meanwhile, Maduro's presumptive successor, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, is reportedly in Russia, according to multiple sources.
Inside Venezuela, Maduro's capture has sparked suspicion of betrayal within the ruling elite, with Diosdado Cabello, who holds the role of minister of interior, justice, and peace, emerging as a possible contender for power.
Conclusion
The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, with President Trump stating that the U.S. will run
Venezuela until a safe transition of power can take place. He also warned that the U.S. is prepared to escalate further if needed. As the international community watches, the political future of Venezuela hangs in the balance.