Venezuela’s Supreme Court has ordered Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to assume presidential powers after United States arrested President Nicolas Maduro, currently held in a New York detention centre.
The top court issued a late-night decree instructing Delcy Rodriguez to temporarily perform all constitutional duties and authorities of the presidency as acting head of state.
Judges avoided declaring President Maduro permanently absent, a legal step that would have constitutionally required national elections to be held within thirty days.
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According to international media reports, the decision was taken to ensure continuity of governance amid extraordinary political and security circumstances facing the South American nation.
The ruling followed reports that United States forces arrested President Nicolas Maduro and his wife during a military operation conducted outside Venezuelan territory.
Venezuelan authorities have described the arrest as a kidnapping, accusing Washington of violating international law and national sovereignty through unilateral action.
Speaking publicly, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez rejected claims made by US President Donald Trump regarding regime change in Venezuela.
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She stated that Nicolas Maduro remains the legitimate president of Venezuela and insisted that the country would not accept foreign domination.
Rodriguez urged citizens to remain calm, united, and vigilant, emphasizing national solidarity during what she described as a critical moment for Venezuela’s future.
She said the government and people were prepared to defend the country, its independence, and its vast natural resources against any external threat.
According to official statements, President Maduro was transferred to a United States military base in New York following his arrest.
After undergoing a medical examination, he was reportedly moved under heavy security to Brooklyn Prison, where he remains in custody.
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Venezuelan officials confirmed that Maduro is expected to be presented before a New York court to face undisclosed legal proceedings.
The United States government, however, defended its actions, with President Trump claiming Washington had intervened to “liberate” Venezuelans from dictatorship.
Trump told reporters that the United States would oversee Venezuela’s affairs until a transition of power is completed.
