In a dramatic geopolitical development, Delcy Rodríguez has been sworn in as Venezuela’s interim president following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. special forces. The ceremony took place before the National Assembly, dominated by Maduro loyalists, where Rodríguez condemned American intervention and vowed to pursue peace and stability.
Meanwhile, Maduro appeared in a New York courtroom pleading not guilty to serious charges including narco-terrorism and weapons possession. The U.S. government alleges Maduro collaborated with drug cartels to smuggle thousands of tons of cocaine into the United States over an extended period.
President Donald Trump indicated willingness to work temporarily with Rodríguez but issued a clear warning that her tenure depends on compliance with American demands. The U.S. administration confirmed it would temporarily govern Venezuela until a secure and just transition can be established, including access for American oil companies to Venezuela’s substantial reserves.
The political crisis follows disputed elections marred by fraud allegations that triggered widespread protests and severe government crackdowns. The U.S. operation resulted in approximately 80 casualties, including 32 Cuban military personnel who had provided personal security for Maduro. The U.S. State Department is preparing to reopen its Caracas embassy pending political stability.
Simultaneously, renewed U.S. interest in Greenland has created additional geopolitical friction. President Trump reiterated his desire to annex the autonomous Danish territory, valued for its strategic location and mineral resources. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens Frederik Nielsen firmly rejected the proposition, stating Greenland is “not for sale” and maintains the right to determine its own future.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and European allies, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Germany’s Foreign Minister, emphasized the importance of sovereignty and democratic decision-making. Though not an independent NATO member, Greenland’s strategic significance is amplified through its association with Denmark and its resource-rich Arctic position.
These parallel developments illustrate escalating global power competition over influence, resources, and security. From Latin America to the Arctic, local leaders are asserting self-determination principles and demanding respect for international law amid great power rivalry.