In Venezuela, Chavismo is retreating, but it is not withdrawing

"In less than two months, the world has forgotten about Nicolas Maduro. The United States has taken center stage in the new Chavista agenda, and its envoys consider the nine-month timeframe proposed by Maria Corina Machado for organizing general elections to be reasonable in discussions with local authorities. Internal shifts are also noticeable. An amnesty law is expected to be passed this Thursday. Civil society is once again calling for street protests."

"Some leaders are emerging from hiding, and the economic climate is improving. There is increasing talk of a new political era. For the most optimistic, there is even talk of a possible democratic transition. At the helm of the government, Delcy Rodriguez, as interim president, faces pressure from the world's most powerful nation as she tries to maneuver with the tools at her disposal, satisfying demands as far as she can and seeking to appease her critics."

"Even in what has been called a zone of obedience, her government appears stable. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that he recognizes and supports the Rodriguez administration as the official authority in Venezuela and has defended it, saying that she is doing a very good job. Despite the emotional wounds inflicted by the U.S. attack on Caracas and the crisis of representation following Maduro's capture, the revolutionary leadership remains loyal to the state and the new government."

After a U.S. military attack on January 3, the Chavista regime faced internal upheaval and entered an uncertain phase with unresolved moral and psychological effects. International focus shifted away from Nicolas Maduro toward U.S. involvement in Venezuelan politics, with U.S. envoys finding Maria Corina Machado's nine-month election timetable reasonable. Domestic changes include expected passage of an amnesty law, renewed civil-society street mobilizations, emerging political leaders, and improving economic indicators. Calls for a new political era and possible democratic transition have grown. Delcy Rodriguez, serving as interim president, navigates intense U.S. pressure while maintaining government stability and securing public support from the armed forces and political structures.

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