What's happened
Venezuela's government remains uncertain after US strikes targeted Maduro's allies. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez appeared on state TV denying Maduro's removal, amid ongoing speculation about her potential to assume power. Key officials survived the attack, but the political future remains unclear.
What's behind the headline?
The current situation underscores the fragile stability of Maduro's government. Despite US attempts to remove Maduro, his core allies, including Vice President Rodríguez, appear to have survived, suggesting a resilient power structure. Rodríguez's public statements and appearances indicate that the regime intends to maintain control, but the uncertainty about Maduro's whereabouts and the potential for internal dissent pose significant risks. The US strikes may have temporarily destabilized the regime, but the survival of key figures suggests that Maduro's hold on power could persist, potentially leading to prolonged political instability. The international community's response and internal military loyalty will determine whether this crisis escalates or stabilizes in the coming weeks.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reports that Rodríguez has been a central figure in Venezuela's leadership, with her influence extending across economic and diplomatic spheres. Reuters highlights her close work with her brother and her role in managing Venezuela's economy through orthodox policies. Both sources emphasize her resilience and the regime's apparent unity after the US strikes. The New York Times provides insight into the broader uncertainty, noting that Maduro's inner circle appears to have survived, but the situation remains fluid. France 24 adds that Rodríguez has called for calm and unity, framing her as a defender of Maduro's government amid international pressure and internal chaos. The contrasting perspectives underscore the regime's resilience but also the ongoing uncertainty about Maduro's ultimate fate.
How we got here
Tensions escalated after US strikes targeted Venezuela, reportedly aiming to seize Maduro and his wife on charges of narco-terrorism. Maduro's government has consistently denied any change in leadership, with Rodríguez playing a central role in defending the regime and managing economic policies amid sanctions and internal crises. Her close ties to Maduro and her influence in economic and diplomatic spheres have made her a key figure in the ongoing political crisis.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s Really Going On in Venezuela’s Power Struggle?
Venezuela is currently facing a major political crisis amid US accusations and military tensions. With key figures like President Maduro and Vice President Delcy Rodriguez involved, many are wondering what this means for the country's future. Below, we answer the most common questions about this unfolding situation and what it could mean for Venezuela and the world.
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What’s Really Happening in Venezuela After US Strikes?
Recent US strikes in Venezuela have sparked widespread speculation about the country's political future. With key officials surviving and the regime claiming stability, many are asking what this means for Maduro’s leadership and Venezuela’s stability. Below, we explore the latest developments and answer common questions about this ongoing crisis.
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