Venezuela's Interim Leadership Pushes Back Against U.S. Orders

The recent U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026, has significantly altered the political landscape in Venezuela. Following the raid, which was characterized by President Donald Trump as a display of American military might, Maduro was taken to New York to face charges related to drug trafficking. In the wake of this operation, Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro's former vice president, has assumed the role of acting president, navigating a complex relationship with the U.S. while attempting to maintain internal stability in Venezuela.

Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez says she has had “enough” of US ordersVenezuela’s acting leader says she has ‘had enough’ of US orders in shot at Trump‘Enough orders from Washington’: Trump's pressure sparks defiance from Venezuela’s interim leaderOil, Power, and the Climate Stakes of the U.S. Move in VenezuelaTrump reveals to The Post secret ‘discombobulator’ weapon was crucial to Venezuelan raid on MaduroVenezuela’s leader signals frustration with Trump

In a recent address, Delcy Rodríguez expressed her frustration with the U.S., stating she has had "enough orders from Washington." Her remarks reflect a growing sentiment in Venezuela against perceived U.S. interference in domestic affairs. Rodríguez emphasized the need for Venezuelans to resolve their political differences internally, asserting, “Let Venezuelan politics resolve our differences and our internal conflicts.” This statement underscores her attempt to unify the country amidst ongoing pressure from the Trump administration, which has been pushing for increased U.S. investment in Venezuela's oil sector.

‘Enough orders from Washington’: Trump's pressure sparks defiance from Venezuela’s interim leaderVenezuela’s acting leader says she has ‘had enough’ of US orders in shot at TrumpVenezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez says she has had “enough” of US ordersVenezuela’s leader signals frustration with TrumpOil, Power, and the Climate Stakes of the U.S. Move in VenezuelaTrump reveals to The Post secret ‘discombobulator’ weapon was crucial to Venezuelan raid on Maduro

The Trump administration has outlined several demands for Venezuela, including a cessation of ties with countries like China, Iran, Russia, and Cuba, and a commitment to partner exclusively with the U.S. on oil production. Rodríguez's administration has faced pressure to comply with these demands while also appeasing Maduro loyalists who are wary of U.S. influence. Despite this, Rodríguez has called for dialogue with opposition groups to foster national unity and stability.

‘Enough orders from Washington’: Trump's pressure sparks defiance from Venezuela’s interim leader

Venezuela's vast oil reserves are a critical factor in U.S. interests in the region. The Trump administration views control over Venezuelan oil flows as a means to exert influence over the government and implement necessary reforms. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that leveraging oil revenues could compel the Venezuelan regime to adopt policies favorable to U.S. interests, including political reconciliation and the release of political prisoners.

Oil, Power, and the Climate Stakes of the U.S. Move in Venezuela

While Rodríguez has publicly rejected U.S. orders, she has also acknowledged the necessity of maintaining a working relationship with the U.S. to stabilize the Venezuelan economy. Critics of U.S. intervention argue that such actions undermine Venezuela's sovereignty and exacerbate internal divisions. Conversely, supporters of the U.S. approach contend that it is essential for promoting democratic governance and economic reform in Venezuela.

‘Enough orders from Washington’: Trump's pressure sparks defiance from Venezuela’s interim leader

• “Let Venezuelan politics resolve our differences and our internal conflicts.” — Delcy Rodríguez, Acting President of Venezuela

Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez says she has had “enough” of US orders

• “We are not afraid, because what must unite us as a people is guaranteeing peace and stability for this country,” — Delcy Rodríguez, Acting President of Venezuela

Venezuela’s acting leader says she has ‘had enough’ of US orders in shot at Trump

• “made [enemy] equipment not work” — Donald Trump, President of the United States

Trump reveals to The Post secret ‘discombobulator’ weapon was crucial to Venezuelan raid on Maduro

As Venezuela navigates this tumultuous period following Maduro's capture, Delcy Rodríguez's leadership will be crucial in balancing U.S. demands with the need for internal cohesion. The ongoing situation highlights the complexities of foreign intervention and its implications for national sovereignty and political stability in Venezuela.

Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez says she has had “enough” of US orders