On January 3, 2026, Nicolás Maduro, the President of Venezuela, was reportedly captured during military operations. In the aftermath, María Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader, announced her intention to lead the country alongside Edmundo González, who has been recognized by the U.S. government as the legitimate leader following his electoral victory against Maduro in 2024. However, Maduro has not acknowledged these results and has remained in power until now.

Machado has expressed her commitment to releasing political prisoners and rebuilding the nation, emphasizing the need for a government that prioritizes democracy and sovereignty. She has received significant public support and was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy for democratic reforms in Venezuela. Despite being in hiding since the summer of 2024 due to threats from the Maduro regime, she has reiterated her gratitude for U.S. support in the transition.

In contrast, reports emerged that U.S. President Donald Trump claimed Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro's vice president, had been sworn in as the new president. However, this claim lacks confirmation from the Venezuelan government, and sources indicate that Rodriguez was in Russia at the time, a statement denied by Russian state media. Rodriguez has been a key figure in Maduro's administration, known for her defense of socialist policies and her rapid rise through various ministerial roles.

The U.S. government's operation to apprehend Maduro has been described as a significant achievement, executed without casualties among American personnel. Since declaring Maduro an illegitimate ruler in January 2019, the U.S. has maintained a firm stance against his administration, which has faced allegations of electoral fraud and human rights violations. The Maduro regime's actions have contributed to a mass migration crisis affecting millions and have raised concerns about the humanitarian implications of foreign intervention in Venezuela's governance.

As the political situation evolves, experts highlight the importance of supporting democratic parties in Venezuela. The opposition, which has rallied around Machado and González, has shown resilience despite facing repression and violence. The future of Venezuela's governance remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions about the implications of foreign involvement and the pressing humanitarian needs of its citizens amidst the political turmoil.