Story perspectives

Delcy Rodríguez Takes Control After Maduro's U.S. Ouster

1/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Following Maduro's removal by United States forces, Delcy Rodríguez, his vice president, has assumed control, sidelining opposition leader María Corina Machado.
Nicolás Maduro, a former bus driver and union activist, rose to power in Venezuela as a successor to Hugo Chavez.
His presidency has faced severe challenges, including United States sanctions and economic collapse, driving mass emigration.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump supports Rodríguez.

History

Historical Context

Nicolás Maduro's presidency, which began in 2013, has been marked by severe economic decline and political turmoil, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019. Following his disputed re-election, the National Assembly declared Juan Guaidó interim president, igniting a political crisis. By 2019, Venezuela's GDP had plummeted by 60%, reflecting the profound impact of both domestic policies and foreign intervention on the nation's stability.

1 of 2

Story summary

Following Maduro's removal by United States forces, Delcy Rodríguez, his vice president, has assumed control, sidelining opposition leader María Corina Machado.
Nicolás Maduro, a former bus driver and union activist, rose to power in Venezuela as a successor to Hugo Chavez.
His presidency has faced severe challenges, including United States sanctions and economic collapse, driving mass emigration.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump supports Rodríguez.

1 / 2