Delcy Rodriguez Assumes Role as Acting President of Venezuela

Venezuela’s political landscape has shifted dramatically following the capture of former President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces in an unprecedented raid on March 15, 2025. In the aftermath, Delcy Rodriguez, who has served as Maduro’s vice president since 2018, has assumed the role of acting president. Known for her strong anti-imperialist stance, Rodriguez, often referred to as “the tigress,” is now positioned to lead the country through a critical political transition.

Rodriguez, aged 56, has been a prominent figure in Venezuelan politics, having held various roles under both Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chavez. Her legal background is complemented by her experience as the country’s foreign minister and, more recently, as the minister of hydrocarbons. This latter role is particularly significant in a nation whose economy heavily relies on oil exports, with Venezuela boasting the largest proven oil reserves in the world.

Following Maduro’s capture, Rodriguez insisted that he remains “the only president” of Venezuela and demanded his immediate release. In a swift move, Venezuela’s Supreme Court ordered Rodriguez to assume presidential powers in an acting capacity, marking her as the first woman to hold this position, even temporarily. Just hours later, the military, which has previously vowed loyalty to Maduro, recognized her as the interim leader.

Political Maneuvering and Support

Rodriguez’s political journey is marked by her close ties to Maduro and her family’s history. Her brother, Jorge Rodriguez, leads Venezuela’s parliament, and their father was a Marxist activist who died in government custody in 1976. Political analysts suggest that her rise has involved navigating internal power dynamics within the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV).

Political analyst Pedro Benitez of the Central University of Venezuela stated, “She has probably been one of Maduro’s most trusted people over the years.” However, her path to rebranding as a moderate politician may prove challenging, given her history and the emotional drive stemming from her father’s death.

In recent years, Rodriguez has altered her approach, softening her rhetoric to engage with Venezuela’s business sector, which has been historically marginalized by socialist leaders. From 2020 to 2024, while serving as both vice president and economy minister, she eased trade restrictions in a de facto dollarized economy, earning respect from business leaders who now view her as a capable economic manager.

International Reactions and Future Challenges

The international response to Rodriguez’s ascension has been mixed. Former U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that Rodriguez has expressed a willingness to engage with Washington, while downplaying the prospects of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado taking over. Trump noted that Machado lacks sufficient “support or respect” within Venezuela.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented that the United States would consider collaborating with remaining Chavista leaders if they make “the right decision.” He emphasized the need for actions over public statements. Trump also warned that Rodriguez risks facing severe consequences if she does not comply with U.S. demands regarding policy reforms and oil access.

Rodriguez is currently under sanctions from both the United States and the European Union for alleged involvement in undermining democracy and human rights violations. Political scientist Benigno Alarcon remarked that while Rodriguez has yet to be formally sworn in, she is already seen as the de facto president of Venezuela.

As Rodriguez navigates this transitional period, the future of her leadership—and that of Venezuela—remains uncertain. The nation faces considerable challenges, both internally and in its relations with the international community. With a complex political backdrop, her ability to unify the country and engage with global powers will be pivotal in the days ahead.