Venezuela's military recognizes Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as acting leader after Maduro's capture

CBS News•January 4, 2026•general

Key Points:

Venezuela's military and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez recognize Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as acting president following the U.S. extraction of Nicolas Maduro from Caracas, supported by a Supreme Court ruling appointing her for 90 days.
Rodriguez, Maduro's vice president since 2018, condemned the U.S. military operation as a "barbaric" and "illegal kidnapping," demanding Maduro's immediate release while expressing willingness for respectful dialogue with the U.S.
President Trump stated that the U.S. has been in contact with Rodriguez, who is "essentially willing" to cooperate, but also warned she could face severe consequences if she does not act in line with U.S. interests.
Maduro and his wife arrived in New York