Venezuela has appointed a new acting leader after the country’s Supreme Court directed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume presidential responsibilities following the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro by United States authorities.
The directive was issued by the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice, which explained that the decision was necessary to ensure continuity of governance during Maduro’s absence.
The court instructed Rodríguez to step in as acting president to maintain stability and safeguard state operations.
It further disclosed that additional consultations will take place to determine the legal framework that will guide the government throughout this transitional period.
According to the ruling, the priority is to keep government structures functioning while Maduro remains in detention.
Maduro was taken into custody in the early hours of Saturday during a U.S.-led operation, an action that has generated significant political reactions both within Venezuela and internationally.
With the latest ruling, Rodríguez has now assumed executive authority until further notice.
Maduro has reportedly been transferred to New York, where he is expected to stand trial over allegations relating to arms and drug trafficking.
