Maduro and Wife Seized, Facing U.S. Drug Charges Delta Force operatives entered the Caracas compound, detained President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, and transported them to New York where they now sit in a federal jail awaiting trial on drug‑trafficking and weapons accusations [1]. The operation was described as a precision raid, and U.S. officials have framed the capture as a decisive blow against the regime’s illicit networks [1]. Maduro’s removal marks the first time a sitting Venezuelan leader has been taken into U.S. custody.

Delcy Rodríguez Sworn Acting President, Chavismo Continues On Monday, Vice‑President Delcy Rodríguez took the oath of office, pledging continuity of the socialist government and denying any foreign control [1]. She retained Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino in their posts, despite U.S. sanctions and bounties of $25 million and $15 million respectively [1]. Rodríguez’s statement emphasized internal stability while the United States maintains pressure on senior officials.

Opposition Demands Elections, Machado Gains International Attention Opposition leader María Corina Machado called for immediate presidential elections, arguing that a new vote is the only path to legitimacy [1]. Machado criticized the transitional process and sought support from foreign governments, while former President Donald Trump questioned her leadership yet hinted at possible engagement with opposition figures in Washington [1]. The opposition’s push adds diplomatic urgency to the unfolding crisis.

Cabello Appears Armed, Labels Capture Terrorist Attack video released after Maduro’s abduction shows Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello surrounded by armed men, wearing a bullet‑proof vest and helmet, while drones hovered over Caracas [2]. Cabello denounced the U.S. raid as a “criminal, terrorist attack” and urged calm, reinforcing his role as the regime’s security chief [2]. The same day, Attorney General Pam Bondi unsealed an indictment that lists Cabello immediately after Maduro, intensifying legal exposure for the minister [2].

Selective Prisoner Releases Offer Cautious Hope The government announced the release of a large batch of political prisoners, including several opposition lawmakers, in a gesture aimed at easing tensions [1]. Video footage of reunions circulated on social media, prompting human‑rights groups to call for a broader amnesty [1]. Critics argue the releases are symbolic and do not address systemic repression.

Oil Negotiations Highlight Sanctions and Market Uncertainty President Trump suggested Venezuela could hand over tens of millions of barrels of sanctioned oil to the United States as part of a broader negotiation [1]. PDVSA confirmed it is in talks but warned that any deal must navigate complex sanctions and market volatility [1]. Oil executives expressed caution, noting that committing to such transfers could destabilize both Venezuelan revenues and global oil supplies.