06.01.2026 00:20
Following the military intervention by the United States in Venezuela on January 3, Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed the position of interim President, took a firm step as soon as she took office. In the first decree signed by Rodriguez, it was decided that those who supported the U.S. intervention or promoted this process would be detained and brought to justice nationwide.
Delcy Rodriguez, who took the oath as the interim President of Venezuela on January 3 following the U.S. military operation, signed a striking decree as soon as she took office. The first decree published under the title of "State of External Disturbance" stipulated the arrest and prosecution of individuals who support or encourage U.S. intervention throughout the country.
FIRST SIGNATURE IMMEDIATELY AFTER TAKING OFFICE
With the decree she approved before the oath-taking ceremony, Rodriguez officially initiated the state of emergency process. The decree grants security forces broad powers against individuals identified as supporting the armed attack by the U.S. on Venezuelan territory.
BROAD POWERS TO THE POLICE ORGANIZATION
The text instructs all law enforcement agencies at the national, state, and municipal levels to immediately identify, arrest, and refer to judicial authorities individuals who promote or support U.S. intervention.
HARSH MESSAGES AT THE OATH-TAKING CEREMONY
Delcy Rodriguez, sworn in by National Assembly President and her brother Jorge Rodriguez, harshly criticized the U.S. in her speech during the ceremony. Claiming that Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores were kidnapped, Rodriguez described the events as an "illegitimate military attack."
"I WILL NOT STOP FOR A MOMENT FOR MY PEOPLE"
In her speech, Rodriguez emphasized that she would work tirelessly for the peace and prosperity of the Venezuelan people, stating, "In these difficult days, we will move our country forward together."
STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR 90 DAYS
The decree issued under the state of emergency will be in effect for 90 days. Authorities announced that this period could be extended for another 90 days if necessary.
CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY USED FOR THE FIRST TIME
The decree in question is recorded as the first application of the provision in the 1999 Constitution that grants extraordinary powers to the president in situations that seriously threaten the security of the nation.