The New York Times recently published an investigative piece, drawing from a dozen sources within Venezuela, that sheds light on Delcy Rodríguez’s aggressive maneuvers against Nicolás Maduro's closest allies since assuming her role as acting president of Venezuela.
The report details how prominent business figures, government officials, and even family members of the former president have faced dismissal, persecution, and media blackouts.
Insiders within the Chavismo movement, as quoted by the New York publication, paint a grim picture of fear and control with the assertion that Rodríguez "rules with a gun to the head."
Among those who have fallen out of favor is Mario Silva, a once-essential media figure in Chavismo, who has reportedly seen his privileges and media presence diminish.
Media mogul Raúl Gorrín, wanted by the United States on charges of money laundering, is reported to be held at La Tumba, a notorious Sebin detention site in Caracas, since the end of March.
Alex Saab was apprehended in a joint operation involving Venezuela and the United States on February 4, with discussions of potential extradition to Florida underway.
Former Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, an instrumental figure within Maduro's circle, was reassigned as Minister of Agriculture last Tuesday, a move perceived as a fall from grace.
Others losing their grip on power include former Attorney General Tarek William Saab and businessman Wilmer Ruperti, as documented by the Times.
Even Maduro's son has reportedly been impacted, with state contracts allegedly severed.
The publication further uncovers that Rodríguez has been leveraging Venezuelan intelligence services to monitor and surveil former allies.
According to sources referenced by the Times, these arrests have occurred with the knowledge and consent of the United States, suggesting a coordinated power shift involving Washington's influence.
On January 21, Rodríguez made 28 strategic changes within the National Bolivarian Armed Forces to align them more closely with U.S. interests, according to the report.
Within Chavismo, speculation mounts that Maduro was betrayed on January 3, with Rodríguez's name frequently mentioned at the heart of this narrative.
Rodríguez herself acknowledged the significance of these events, declaring on April 9, "January marked the end of the process."
Key Questions About Delcy Rodríguez's Political Maneuvers
Who is Delcy Rodríguez?
Delcy Rodríguez is a prominent Venezuelan politician who is currently serving as the acting president of Venezuela. She is known for her influential role within the Chavismo movement.
What actions has Delcy Rodríguez taken against Nicolás Maduro's allies?
Delcy Rodríguez has undertaken a series of actions, including dismissals, persecutions, and media blackouts, targeting Maduro's close allies. She has also used intelligence services to monitor these individuals.
How has the United States been involved in these developments?
The United States is reported to have been involved, with the arrests and power shifts occurring with their knowledge and consent, indicating a coordinated effort with Washington's influence.