Power Consolidation in Caracas: Delcy Rodríguez Appoints Daniella Cabello Amid U.S. Intervention

Amid the turmoil unleashed by the recent U.S. operation capturing Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela finds itself at a critical crossroads—yet instead of genuine reform or democratic restoration, what we witness is an entrenched regime reinforcing its hold through nepotistic appointments and strategic reshuffling.

Is This Change or Just More of the Same?

Delcy Rodríguez, installed as Venezuela’s acting president following Maduro’s detainment during the U.S. military action on January 3rd, named Daniella Cabello—daughter of Diosdado Cabello, one of chavismo’s most powerful figures—as the new Minister of Tourism. While presented as part of cabinet modernization efforts, this move exposes the persistence of cronyism within the Venezuelan leadership.

Rodríguez’s telegram announcement claimed that Daniella would propel national tourism development and promote Venezuela to the world. Yet how credible is this promise when it comes from a government still tightly controlled by loyalists linked directly to former president Hugo Chávez’s inner circle? The appointment risks perpetuating corruption rather than addressing the nation’s socioeconomic collapse fueled by decades of mismanagement.

Washington’s Overreach Fuels Instability on America’s Doorstep

The U.S.’s aggressive intervention claiming to “restore democracy” has instead intensified Venezuela’s political chaos. Rather than uprooting authoritarianism, these actions have prompted swift regime adaptations like Rodríguez’s cabinet reshuffle—reinforcing family dynasties and military loyalties that maintain control over vital sectors including oil and security.

Rodríguez also replaced other senior officials with military figures loyal to Maduro’s faction, ensuring that power remains concentrated among trusted elites who resist true reform. For American taxpayers and policymakers advocating for freedom abroad, this begs a crucial question: does backing such interventions advance our national interests or merely destabilize a sovereign neighbor while strengthening anti-American elements?

This turmoil inevitably spills across our borders — contributing to increased migration flows and economic uncertainty in our hemisphere. The so-called “exploratory” engagement with Washington announced by Rodríguez’s government—such as crude oil sales to the U.S.—appears more transactional than transformative without fundamental political change.

American policymakers must reconsider whether supporting regime change via military means serves our long-term goals or undermines principles of national sovereignty and regional stability cherished by everyday Americans seeking peace and prosperity.