On Monday, Delcy Rodríguez delivered a politically charged speech in response to Donald Trump's viral social media post where he declared himself the "interim president of Venezuela." This bold claim sparked widespread reactions online.
Speaking from Catia La Mar, an area heavily affected by what she termed as the "illegal and unlawful aggression" from the United States, the acting Venezuelan president addressed the situation. Although she did not mention Trump by name, her comments clearly alluded to the image circulated by the former U.S. president, which showed a fictitious Wikipedia page listing him as the leader of the South American nation.
"I've seen caricatures of who supposedly rules Venezuela," Rodríguez remarked during the unveiling of the new National School Pedro Camejo in the César Nieves area.
"There is a government in Venezuela, and it is led by an acting president here, while there is a president held captive in the United States," she stated, referring to Nicolás Maduro, who was recently captured and taken to New York following a U.S. military operation.
Rodríguez emphasized that political power in the country is exercised "alongside the organized people and popular power," asserting that her administration is advancing international relations grounded in respect and legality, aiming to "protect the rights of our beloved Venezuela."
This declaration came after Trump posted on Truth Social an image portraying him as the "acting interim president of Venezuela since January 2026." While the post holds no legal or international recognition, it has intensified perceptions of the United States' overt interest in influencing Venezuela's political landscape.
Understanding the Political Dynamics in Venezuela
Why did Delcy Rodríguez respond to Trump's claim?
Delcy Rodríguez responded to Trump's claim to assert the legitimacy of the current Venezuelan government and to reject any external attempts to undermine its sovereignty.
What was the reaction to Trump's declaration on social media?
Trump's declaration stirred significant reactions online, highlighting the controversial nature of his claim and the ongoing tensions between the United States and Venezuela.
How does Delcy Rodríguez view the political power structure in Venezuela?
Rodríguez views the political power structure in Venezuela as being closely aligned with the organized citizenry and popular power, emphasizing a governance model based on respect and legality.