Venezuela’s Supreme Court has appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as the country’s acting president following the detention of President Nicolás Maduro in an operation involving United States forces.

In a ruling issued by the Constitutional Chamber, the court said Rodríguez would temporarily assume presidential duties to ensure continuity of government and national stability.

“The office of President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall be assumed by Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, in order to guarantee administrative continuity and the comprehensive defense of the Nation,” the court stated.

The judges further noted that the move was necessary due to what they described as the “forced absence” of the head of state, adding that additional legal deliberations would follow.

According to the ruling, the court will continue to examine the situation to “determine the applicable legal framework to guarantee the continuity of the State, the administration of government, and the defense of sovereignty.”

Details surrounding Maduro’s detention remain unclear, with Venezuelan authorities yet to issue an official statement on the circumstances under which he was apprehended. The development marks a significant escalation in tensions between Caracas and Washington, which have been strained for years over sanctions, governance disputes and allegations of human rights violations.

Rodríguez, a close ally of Maduro, has previously served as foreign minister and has been a key figure in Venezuela’s diplomatic and political landscape. Her appointment places her at the centre of efforts to maintain state operations amid growing political uncertainty.

The situation continues to unfold as regional and international observers closely monitor developments in the South American nation.