The unexpected arrest of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces has sparked a wave of speculation about the inner workings of the chavista power structure.
In an interview with Noticias Caracol, Rodil bluntly stated that "the Rodríguez siblings handed over Nicolás Maduro," driven by political ambitions and the belief that the leader's tenure was nearing its end. "They saw an opportunity when they sensed that Maduro's days were numbered and thought they could seize control of the government," he asserted.
The former investigator elaborated that Delcy Rodríguez had particularly spearheaded contacts with the United States, believing she could retain power following Maduro's departure.
"She negotiated under the impression that President Trump was inviting her to a celebration, only to end up at a funeral," Rodil remarked, offering one of the interview's most striking observations. According to his analysis, Delcy failed to realize that Washington did not recognize Maduro's legitimacy, and thus, not hers either.
Rodil further described the current role of the chavista leader: "Today her task is not to govern, but to deliver the remains of the cartel. She is the funeral director," he said, referring to the gradual dismantling of the so-called Cartel of the Suns.
Regarding the true influence of the Rodríguez siblings within chavismo, the former official argued that their threat has been underestimated for years. "They are more criminal than Maduro, but they have been more cunning. They have survived longer without formal accusations," he noted, highlighting that Delcy Rodríguez faces ongoing investigations in the United States related to corruption, drug trafficking, and connections with groups deemed terrorist organizations.
During the interview with Noticias Caracol, Rodil also cautioned that the Rodríguez's situation could deteriorate if they fail to meet Washington's demands. "She knows that if she doesn't comply with what's being asked of her, she could face a worse fate than Maduro," he warned.
The statements from the former investigator offer a provocative narrative about the internal collapse of chavismo, at a time when Venezuela is undergoing an uncertain transition and the region watches closely as key regime figures become increasingly exposed. For Rodil, the message is clear: "Trump is not bluffing, and when he says he's going to dismantle the cartel, he means it."
As Rodil suggests, this story is only beginning to unfold.
Insights into the Rodríguez Siblings and the Fall of Chavismo
What motivated the Rodríguez siblings to turn against Maduro?
According to Rodil, the Rodríguez siblings were driven by political ambition and the perception that Maduro's leadership was coming to an end, seeing a chance to take control.
How did Delcy Rodríguez attempt to negotiate with the United States?
Delcy Rodríguez believed she could maintain power post-Maduro by engaging in negotiations with the U.S., mistakenly thinking she was entering a favorable agreement.
What are the potential consequences for the Rodríguez siblings?
Rodil warns that their situation could worsen if they fail to comply with U.S. demands, potentially facing outcomes more severe than Maduro's.