US President Donald Trump stated during a press conference that Delcy Rodriguez has been “just sworn in” as the president of Venezuela, following the reported capture of Nicolas Maduro by US forces. This claim has not been confirmed by the Venezuelan government, which has remained silent on Rodriguez’s alleged inauguration. Sources have indicated that Rodriguez was in Russia at the time of Trump’s announcement, although the Russian state news agency has denied these reports.
Rodriguez, who has been a prominent figure in Venezuela’s political landscape, is known for her staunch support of Maduro’s socialist government. Trump asserted that the United States would be managing Venezuela’s affairs in the near future, citing Rodriguez’s willingness to cooperate in efforts to restore the country. She has been described by Maduro as a “tiger” for her unwavering defense of his administration.
Background and Political Influence
A Caracas native, Rodriguez is 56 years old, born on May 18, 1969. She is the daughter of Jorge Antonio Rodriguez, a left-wing guerrilla fighter who founded the Liga Socialista party in the 1970s. Her rapid ascent in Venezuelan politics has seen her hold significant positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Oil, alongside her role as Vice President, which she has held since June 2018.
Rodriguez’s background in law, having graduated from the Universidad Central de Venezuela, has played a crucial role in her political journey. She served as the Minister of Communication and Information from 2013 to 2014, and later as Foreign Minister from 2014 to 2017. Notably, she gained international attention in 2017 when she attempted to disrupt a meeting of the Mercosur trade bloc in Buenos Aires after Venezuela’s suspension from the group.
In addition to her ministerial roles, Rodriguez has been instrumental in expanding Maduro’s powers through her leadership of a pro-government Constituent Assembly, which began in 2017. Her political strategy has included the implementation of orthodox economic policies aimed at combating hyperinflation, which has severely impacted Venezuela’s economy.
Current Developments and Future Prospects
Recently, Rodriguez called on the US government to provide proof of life for Maduro and his wife during an audio message broadcast on state television. As of now, her exact whereabouts remain unclear, raising questions about her role in the current political landscape.
In August 2024, Maduro expanded Rodriguez’s responsibilities by assigning her the oil ministry, a critical position given the escalating US sanctions imposed on Venezuela’s oil industry, which is vital to the country’s economy. Trump’s assertions regarding her presidency may have far-reaching implications for Venezuela’s future, particularly in light of the ongoing economic crisis and international relations.
As the situation develops, Rodriguez’s influence and actions will be closely monitored both domestically and internationally, as she navigates the challenges facing her government amidst significant political turmoil.
