Story perspectives

DEA Targets Venezuela's Delcy Rodríguez for Drug Trafficking

1/17/2026

Center

Rodríguez Targeted for Corruption

The DEA identified Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's acting president, as a priority target for alleged drug trafficking and corruption.
Records show she has been under investigation since 2018, with links to money laundering on Margarita Island.
Despite close ties to Nicolás Maduro, the Trump administration portrays her as a stabilizing force in Venezuela.
The situation remains precarious as U.S. officials monitor her actions and scrutinize contracts awarded to corrupt-dealing associates.

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Rodríguez Consolidates Power

U.S. officials communicated with Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela's hardline interior minister, before and after the operation to seize President Nicolas Maduro.
The talks aimed to prevent Cabello from using security forces against opponents.
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez consolidates power.
Delcy Rodriguez has appointed loyalists to key positions, including the head of the military counterintelligence agency.
U.S. officials say Cabello remains a threat to Rodriguez's governance, with accountability essential for a transition.

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Rodríguez Targeted for Corruption

The DEA identified Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's acting president, as a priority target for alleged drug trafficking and corruption.
Records show she has been under investigation since 2018, with links to money laundering on Margarita Island.
Despite close ties to Nicolás Maduro, the Trump administration portrays her as a stabilizing force in Venezuela.
The situation remains precarious as U.S. officials monitor her actions and scrutinize contracts awarded to corrupt-dealing associates.

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