The capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro earlier this week has triggered a volatile period of political transition and security concerns within the nation [[1]]. Reports indicate at least two dozen members of Maduro’s security detail perished during the U.S.-led operation, the details of which remain largely undisclosed, and are now prompting a shakeup within the Venezuelan military [[2]].As international actors, including Spain, attempt to mediate a path forward, the appointment of a controversial former intelligence chief to a key security post and the return of opposition figures signal a deeply uncertain future for Venezuela [[3]].
Venezuela: Security Shakeup, Transition Talks, and Rising Death Toll
Venezuelan authorities reported at least 24 military personnel involved in Nicolás Maduro’s security detail died during a U.S. operation on January 3 that resulted in the capture of the former president, now facing legal proceedings. The disclosure, made via social media by the Venezuelan Army, comes amid a period of political upheaval and international scrutiny.
In a separate development, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated he will speak with Delcy Rodríguez, recently designated as Venezuela’s “acting president,” in an effort to facilitate a political transition. The move underscores international efforts to address the ongoing crisis in the South American nation.
On Tuesday, Rodríguez appointed General Gustavo Enrique González López as the new commander of the Presidential Honor Guard. González López previously served as director of the Bolivarian Intelligence Service (Sebin) from 2014 to 2018. During his tenure at Sebin, the agency was repeatedly accused of arbitrary detentions and torture of opponents of Maduro’s government amidst widespread street protests. The appointment raises concerns among human rights groups.
Opposition leader María Corina Machado, in an interview with Fox News, vowed to return to Venezuela “as soon as possible.” She sharply criticized Rodríguez, calling her “the architect of torture, persecution, corruption and drug trafficking” in the country. The case highlights the deep divisions within Venezuelan society and the challenges facing any potential transition.
The U.S. Department of Justice has updated its definition of the “Cartel of the Suns” and Nicolás Maduro’s alleged role within it, as part of a new indictment against the former president. A previous indictment was filed in 2020. The evolving legal strategy suggests a continued focus on dismantling alleged criminal networks linked to the Maduro regime.
