Caracas: Venezuela’s interim government said it remains united behind President Nicolás Maduro after he was taken into custody by the United States, rejecting claims by Washington that his removal has cleared the way for a political transition.
Senior officials in Caracas described the US action as an illegal seizure and insisted that Maduro is still the country’s legitimate leader. They said state institutions, including the armed forces and courts, continue to function normally and remain loyal to him.
The statement came after US President Donald Trump said Washington would temporarily oversee Venezuela, claiming cooperation from some Venezuelan officials. Caracas strongly denied this, calling the remarks false and provocative.
Venezuela’s Supreme Court announced that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez would carry out interim duties, stressing that the move does not signal a transfer of power but is meant to ensure continuity of governance while Maduro remains in detention.
Government supporters gathered in parts of Caracas, expressing solidarity with Maduro and condemning what they called foreign interference. Authorities increased security around key government buildings and oil facilities amid fears of unrest.
International reaction has been mixed. Several countries, including China, criticised the US move and urged respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty, while diplomatic sources said an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council is expected to address the situation.
Analysts warn that the crisis could deepen political divisions inside Venezuela and disrupt global oil markets. With Maduro expected to face US legal proceedings, uncertainty remains over how long the standoff between Washington and Caracas will last and what it will mean for the country’s future.