Venezuela President indictment proceedings advanced on January 3, 2026, as US prosecutors charged Nicolas Maduro and his wife in New York, while Venezuela’s Supreme Court appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as acting leader.

The Venezuela President indictment was announced in New York, naming President Nicolas Maduro and his wife in serious criminal charges under US law.
According to the US Attorney General, the charges include alleged involvement in terrorism-related activities, international drug trafficking, and illegal arms exports.

US authorities stated that Maduro and his spouse would be held accountable in American courts, with formal legal proceedings already initiated.
The Attorney General said the case carries global significance, sending a strong message against narcotics trafficking and terrorism worldwide.

Prosecutors confirmed that evidence and witness testimonies will be presented during upcoming court hearings in New York.
Investigations are also expected to examine activities allegedly supported by Maduro’s government in Venezuela.

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Supreme Court Appoints Acting President in Venezuela

Following reports that President Maduro and his wife were abducted, Venezuela’s Supreme Court issued an overnight order appointing Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as acting president.
The court authorized Rodríguez to assume all presidential powers to ensure administrative continuity and national defense stability.

Judges avoided declaring Maduro permanently absent, a move that would have required national elections within thirty days.
The decision aimed to prevent immediate political uncertainty during an already volatile period.

US Statements and Venezuelan Government Response

US President Donald Trump stated that the United States would manage Venezuela until a “safe transfer of power” became possible.
He also announced that American oil companies would operate in Venezuela during this interim period.

Venezuela’s government rejected these remarks, accusing Washington of targeting the country’s oil and mineral resources.
Officials claimed Trump’s statements indirectly confirmed long-standing allegations of economic motives behind US actions.

Also Read: Trump claims US operation arrested Venezuela’s President Maduro

Acting President Rejects US Claims

In a national address, acting President Delcy Rodríguez dismissed claims that Venezuela was under US control.
She declared that Venezuela would not become any country’s colony and insisted that Nicolas Maduro remains the legitimate president.

Rodríguez urged citizens to remain patient and united, emphasizing readiness to defend national sovereignty and natural resources.
She also confirmed that Venezuela’s Special Defense Council had been convened to respond to threats against territorial integrity.