Venezuela Court Orders Rodriguez to Take Over Presidential Duties

(MENAFN) Venezuela's Supreme Court of Justice issued an emergency order Saturday directing Executive Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to "immediately" take over presidential duties following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro by United States forces and his subsequent transport to New York.

The tribunal mandated Rodriguez assume executive power "in strict compliance with the Constitution and Venezuelan laws," media reported.

Tania D'Amelio, who leads the court's Constitutional Chamber, stated the directive aims to guarantee the "administrative continuity of the state and the defense of the nation."

Judicial authorities determined Maduro faces a "material and temporary impossibility" to fulfill presidential responsibilities.

Earlier Saturday, Caracas accused Washington of launching strikes against civilian and military targets across multiple Venezuelan states, prompting officials to declare a national emergency.

Donald Trump, the US President, subsequently acknowledged the "large-scale" military operation, confirming that President Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been "captured and flown out of the country."

The dramatic escalation follows months of intensifying American pressure on Maduro, whom Washington has accused of involvement in narcotics trafficking operations. The Venezuelan leader has consistently rejected these allegations while indicating willingness to engage in diplomatic dialogue.

MENAFN04012026000045017169ID1110552874