On Jan. 3, the U.S. carried out a daring military operation in Venezuela, seizing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. Just two days later, on Jan. 5, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as acting president, setting the stage for a new chapter in Venezuelan politics.
Multiple ambassadors to the United Nations, including some U.S. allies, scrambled to condemn the action, calling it a breach of sovereignty and a risky move that could fuel regional tensions. With the U.S. at the helm of this high-stakes drama, questions now swirl around Venezuela’s political stability, economic outlook, and ties with global powers.
To decode the fallout, we spoke with Peruvian international analyst Farid Kahhat in Lima. Here’s what he had to say:
1. A test of domestic legitimacy
Rodriguez steps in as acting president, but she faces the monumental task of winning over a deeply divided population. “Her immediate priority will be to secure backing from key military and political factions,” Kahhat notes, “while also preventing any power vacuums that could spark unrest.”
2. International chessboard
With major players like the U.S., Russia, and the Chinese mainland watching closely, Venezuela could become the ultimate diplomatic arena. Kahhat warns: “This move may push Maduro’s backers even closer, leading to intensified sanctions, countermeasures, and a race for influence in Caracas.”
3. Economic turbulence ahead
Venezuela’s economy, already struggling under years of sanctions and mismanagement, faces fresh uncertainty. “Oil production and foreign investment could slump further,” says Kahhat, “magnifying the humanitarian crisis and pushing more Venezuelans to seek new opportunities abroad.”
As the dust settles, Rodriguez must navigate a maze of internal and external pressures to chart Venezuela’s path forward. One thing is clear: the region—and the world—will be watching every move. 🤓🌍
Reference(s):
Analyst reacts to future of Venezuela following U.S. operation
cgtn.com
