Full Breakdown
Delcy Rodríguez Affirms Nicolás Maduro's Legitimacy Amid U.S. Engagement
2/12/2026, 9:13:38 PM
Maduro's Continued Claim to Leadership
In a recent interview with NBC News, Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president of Venezuela, asserted that Nicolás Maduro remains the legitimate leader of the country despite his imprisonment in the United States on drug trafficking charges. Rodríguez, who assumed the presidency following Maduro's capture by U.S. forces on January 3, emphasized her constitutional authority, stating, “I can tell you President Nicolás Maduro is the legitimate president. I will tell you this as a lawyer, that I am. Both President Maduro and Cilia Flores, the first lady, are both innocent.”
U.S. Engagement and Economic Cooperation
Rodríguez's comments come as U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright visited Caracas to discuss the recovery of Venezuela's oil industry, which has suffered from years of underinvestment and mismanagement. During his visit, Wright praised Rodríguez for her cooperation, stating, “She’s delivered information. Everything we know so far has turned out to be true.” He noted that over $1 billion in Venezuelan oil has already been sold, with an additional $5 billion expected in the coming months.
The U.S. government has been working to reshape Venezuela's oil sector, which is crucial for the country's economy. Wright highlighted that the U.S. now controls a significant revenue source for the Venezuelan government, providing leverage over the interim authorities. He remarked, “If they're driving positive change that benefits Americans and is improving the life opportunities of people in Venezuela, that money will flow.”
Rodríguez's Position and Future Engagements
Rodríguez has indicated a willingness to engage further with the U.S., mentioning that she has been invited to visit and is contemplating the trip once cooperation is established. She stated, “We’re contemplating coming there once we establish this cooperation and we can move forward with everything.” Her administration has already begun implementing changes to Venezuela's hydrocarbon laws to attract foreign investment, marking a significant shift from the previous socialist policies.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite Rodríguez's claims of legitimacy and authority, there are dissenting voices within Venezuela. Some allies of Maduro have expressed surprise at Rodríguez's consolidation of power following his capture. Additionally, the recent arrest of opposition figure Juan Pablo Guanipa, who was placed under house arrest after being released from prison, highlights the ongoing political tensions in the country.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While Rodríguez maintains that Maduro is innocent and the legitimate president, U.S. authorities have accused him of leading a narco-terrorism conspiracy. This discrepancy raises questions about the future political landscape in Venezuela and the potential for reconciliation between the interim government and opposition forces.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I can tell you I am in charge of the presidency of Venezuela, as it’s stated clearly in the constitution of Venezuela.” — Delcy Rodríguez, Acting President of Venezuela
- “Ronald Reagan, trust but verify. Trust but verify. We’ve been dealing with Delcy for five weeks now. It’s been an amazing cooperation,” — Chris Wright, U.S. Energy Secretary
- “If they're driving positive change that benefits Americans and is improving the life opportunities of people in Venezuela, that money will flow.” — Chris Wright, U.S. Energy Secretary
As Venezuela navigates this complex political landscape, the interplay between Rodríguez's administration and U.S. interests will be crucial in determining the country's future direction.
