Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez Reportedly in Russia Amid Maduro’s Capture
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the wake of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s capture by U.S. forces, reports have surfaced indicating that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, widely regarded as Maduro’s likely successor, is currently in Russia. Four sources familiar with Rodriguez’s movements confirmed her presence in Moscow to Reuters, although Russia’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed the reports as “fake.” This development adds a complex layer to the already volatile political landscape in Venezuela.
Rodriguez, who has been a prominent figure in Maduro’s administration, demanded proof of life for Maduro and his wife following the U.S. military operation that led to their capture. Audio played on Venezuelan state television featured Rodriguez insisting that the U.S. government provide immediate verification of Maduro’s condition. The demand came shortly after President Donald Trump announced the capture and shared a photograph of Maduro detained aboard the U.S.S. Iwo Jima, blindfolded and in casual attire.
Maduro’s arrest marks a significant turning point in U.S.-Venezuelan relations and has triggered a scramble among Venezuelan political actors to fill the power vacuum. Jorge Rodriguez, Delcy’s brother and head of Venezuela’s National Assembly, remains in Caracas, according to multiple sources. The future of Venezuela’s leadership remains uncertain, with Trump stating in an interview on Fox & Friends Weekend that the U.S. is actively deciding how to proceed. “We can’t take a chance of letting somebody else run and just take over where he left off,” Trump said. “We’ll be involved in it very much, and we want to do liberty for the people.”
Experts suggest that opposition leaders María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, both recognized for their efforts toward peace and democracy, could emerge as key figures in Venezuela’s next chapter. Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025, underscoring her prominence in the opposition movement.
The capture of Maduro has elicited strong reactions internationally. The U.S. Department of State has emphasized its commitment to supporting democratic transitions in Venezuela, while the Central Intelligence Agency highlighted the operation as a significant blow to narcotics trafficking and authoritarian regimes in the region.
Meanwhile, the Department of Defense confirmed the successful execution of the military operation that led to Maduro’s detention, underscoring the strategic importance of the mission in combating regional instability. The operation also signals a shift in U.S. foreign policy toward more direct intervention in Latin America.
Delcy Rodriguez’s reported presence in Russia raises questions about Moscow’s role in Venezuela’s unfolding crisis. Russia has historically been a staunch ally of Maduro’s government, providing economic and military support amid international sanctions and diplomatic isolation. The Kremlin’s denial of Rodriguez’s presence may reflect sensitivities surrounding the geopolitical implications of the U.S. operation.
As Venezuela grapples with the aftermath of Maduro’s capture, the international community watches closely. The country’s future hinges on whether a peaceful transition can be achieved or if further instability will ensue. For now, the whereabouts of Delcy Rodriguez and the U.S.’s plans for Venezuela remain central to the unfolding story.
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