Who is Venezuela’s vice president and can she fill Maduro’s shoes? A complex question with a complex answer. Delcy Rodriguez, the current vice president, is a key figure in the regime and a potential partner for the US in a transition to a democratically elected government. But her long allegiance to Maduro, who is widely viewed as having stolen last year’s election, raises questions about her willingness to cede power and the US’s commitment to regime change. Rodriguez’s role in budget planning and diplomatic outreach to allies like China and Russia, as well as her close ties to Maduro, make her a powerful figure in the country. However, her defiant remarks on state television and her calls for Maduro’s return from US custody suggest a potential obstacle to a smooth transition. The US’s willingness to work with Rodriguez is a controversial topic, with some Trump advisers viewing her as an off-ramp from Maduro’s hard-line regime, while others dismiss her as a ‘nice woman’ without the support of the Venezuelan people. The opposition leader Maria Corina Machado is also a potential candidate for a transition, but her lack of support from the Venezuelan people makes her a less appealing choice. The military’s role in the transition is also a key issue, with Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello playing crucial roles in maintaining stability and order. The US’s commitment to protecting oil infrastructure and ensuring a smooth transition is a key factor in the country’s future, but the potential for conflict and instability remains high.
