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Venezuela in limbo after Maduro's sudden US extradition
Caracas remains in political uncertainty following the abrupt removal of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by US authorities on 3 January. The couple now face trial in New York on drug trafficking charges, which they deny, while Venezuela's acting leader navigates competing pressures from Washington and domestic allies.
Drone displays and defiant rhetoric
Weeks after the extradition, a government-organized drone show lit up Caracas' night sky, projecting the faces of Maduro and Flores above the city. Hundreds of drones rearranged to spell "El pueblo los reclama" ("The people want them back"), reinforcing the administration's message of resistance. Yet behind the spectacle, acting President Delcy Rodríguez-a longtime Maduro loyalist-faces a delicate balancing act.
Diplomatic tightrope with Washington
Rodríguez has publicly condemned US "imperialism" while privately negotiating with the Trump administration. In her first address after Maduro's removal, she accused Washington of "energy voracity," echoing socialist rhetoric. Days later, Trump announced a deal for Venezuela to supply 50 million barrels of oil under US oversight-a stark contrast to her anti-American statements.
Christopher Sabatini, a Latin America expert at Chatham House, notes the precarious position: "Trump has implied Venezuela is now a US protectorate. Rodríguez serves at his will." The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has reportedly investigated her, though no charges have been filed.
"She cannot stand up to him,"
Carmen Beatriz Fernández, Venezuelan political analyst
Pragmatism over ideology
Rodríguez's interim government has taken steps to appease both sides. She appointed technocrats over ideologues, passed laws allowing US oil companies to operate in Venezuela, and released political prisoners-though opposition groups argue the moves were coerced. Trump has praised her as "a wonderful person," while Rodríguez describes their dialogue as "courteous."
Phil Gunson of the International Crisis Group explains: "She must maintain anti-US rhetoric to preserve Chavismo's cohesion, even if it's performative."
Military loyalty and economic desperation
Rodríguez's authority hinges on the military's support, particularly Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, who commands paramilitary groups and faces a $25 million US bounty. Despite tensions, the two appear together publicly, fueling speculation of a "good-cop-bad-cop" strategy.
Venezuela's economic collapse-with 86% of citizens in poverty and hyperinflation-offers Rodríguez a potential lifeline. US investment in oil could stabilize the economy, but critics warn benefits may not reach ordinary Venezuelans. A 2025 study found a basic grocery basket cost $527, underscoring the crisis.
Future elections and US divisions
Experts suggest Rodríguez may delay elections until economic conditions improve, positioning herself for a potential run. Sabatini argues she holds unexpected leverage: "Trump wants Venezuela's transition to appear seamless. She's not just a subordinate."
However, factions within the US administration, like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reportedly push for regime change. Opposition groups, who claim Maduro's 2024 election was fraudulent (citing independent tallies showing a 67% loss), remain skeptical of Rodríguez's reforms.
Chavismo's survival strategy
With 7.9 million Venezuelans having fled since 2014, the government's priority is self-preservation. "Chavismo bends so as not to break," says political scientist Ana Milagros Parra. For Rodríguez, that means placating both Washington and hardline loyalists-while hoping economic relief buys time.
As one Caracas resident, Leonardo Arca, put it during a pro-government march: "She's handling this the best she can." But with banners demanding Maduro's return and US flags burned in protest, the path forward remains fraught.
