Despite the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. special forces, the country has yet to witness a democratic breakthrough. This is partly due to the continued influence of Diosdado Cabello, Maduro's staunchest supporter, who remains a key figure in the interim government led by Delcy Rodríguez. Cabello, the Interior Minister, made a bold statement in the aftermath of the U.S. operation, condemning it as a 'cowardly attack' and urging Venezuelans to resist what he called a 'terrorist enemy'. He stood alongside armed security forces, calling for the mobilization of supporters to defend Venezuela's sovereignty and warning opponents of severe consequences for doubting the Bolivarian revolution. Cabello's involvement in drug trafficking and narco-terrorism has been well-documented, with the U.S. offering a substantial reward for information leading to his arrest. Despite these charges, he retains significant power within the Venezuelan government, a situation that has sparked controversy and concern. In Venezuela, Cabello is a notorious figure, known for his close association with Hugo Chávez, the founder of the socialist revolution. As a young army officer, Cabello played a pivotal role in a 1992 military coup, leading tanks that were supposed to attack the presidential palace. However, the coup failed, and Cabello, along with Chávez, was imprisoned. After their release, Chávez rose to the presidency in 1998, and Cabello became a key member of his inner circle. Cabello's influence extended to various government posts, including his role as head of the telecommunications regulator, where he was instrumental in closing down media outlets critical of the government. He also served as interim president for a brief period in 2002 during a short-lived coup. Despite being seen as a potential successor to Chávez, Maduro was chosen by Chávez before his death in 2013, partly due to his close ties with Cuban officials. Cabello's rivalry with Maduro led to his exclusion from the cabinet until 2024, when protests erupted over the stolen presidential election. As Interior Minister, Cabello has been responsible for a brutal crackdown, resulting in numerous deaths and arrests. Critics argue that his presence in the government undermines the stability and transition to democracy that the Trump administration seeks. The situation has raised concerns about the potential for further military strikes and the ongoing influence of hardliners like Cabello and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, who control the military. The opposition, fearing for their safety, has fled the country, and experts predict that Cabello's continued power will hinder the establishment of a stable business climate and democratic transition.
