Delcy Rodríguez Takes Helm as Venezuela's Acting President After Maduro's Capture

• Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's Executive Vice President, assumed acting presidency following the US military capture of President Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores.
• A staunch loyalist of the chavista system, Rodríguez has held powerful roles including Foreign Minister, Finance Minister, and Oil Minister, making her a central figure in the state.
• Venezuela's constitution mandates the Vice President takes over during presidential absence; Rodríguez chaired a National Defense Council meeting, denouncing the US operation.
• Known for her hard-line stance and "full trust" from Maduro, she publicly contradicted US claims of cooperation, insisting Maduro remains the only president.
• Her rise creates profound uncertainty, positioning her as a potential caretaker, hard-line stabiliser, or bridge to a political transition.

Why It Matters: Delcy Rodríguez, a powerful chavista loyalist, now leads Venezuela amidst a political crisis after Maduro's capture.