Venezuela's Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello attends the swearing-in ceremony of Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as Venezuela’s interim president at the National Assembly, in Caracas, Venezuela, January 5, 2026. File Image/Reuters
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Firstpost07-01-2026, 13:05

US Eyes Venezuela's Diosdado Cabello After Maduro's Fall

  • Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela's Interior Minister, is a central figure in the post-Maduro power structure, seen by the US as both indispensable for order and a potential destabilizer.
  • Cabello has an extensive political and military background, holding key roles like Vice President and President, and controlling crucial state institutions.
  • He faces US indictments for narco-terrorism, including conspiracy to import cocaine and firearms offenses, with a $25 million reward for information leading to his arrest.
  • Following Nicolas Maduro's capture, the US is temporarily relying on Cabello and other loyalists to maintain stability during the transition, despite deep suspicions.
  • Washington has warned Cabello against obstructing the transition, aiming to eventually remove him from power while balancing the risk of triggering instability.

Why It Matters: Diosdado Cabello is a pivotal, controversial figure in Venezuela's US-orchestrated transition post-Maduro.

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