Delcy Rodríguez Sworn In as Acting President of Venezuela After Nicolás Maduro’s Capture

On January 5, 2026, Delcy Rodríguez was formally sworn in as the acting President of Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces during a military operation earlier that week. Rodríguez, who had been serving as Vice President, was designated to assume the role by Venezuela’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice after Maduro’s detention, and the formal swearing-in occurred in a ceremony held by the National Assembly on the scheduled date. This transition marked a significant moment in Venezuela’s political landscape amid extraordinary circumstances of foreign military intervention and the high-profile removal of the sitting president. Rodríguez’s assumption of the acting presidency was framed by authorities as necessary to ensure continuity of governance, maintain administrative operations, and respond to both domestic and international reactions. Her position carries full executive authority under constitutional provisions invoked by the court to manage the government in Maduro’s absence. Since taking office, the acting president has navigated internal power dynamics and external pressures, including engaging in diplomacy, policy initiatives, and legal reforms. The broader context of her leadership continues to shape discussions on Venezuela’s future governance structure, international relations, and national stability.