Security forces have stepped up patrols across major Venezuelan cities amid heightened political tension, as opposition groups intensified demands for the immediate release of political prisoners and renewed calls for democratic freedoms.

The increased security presence followed a wave of protests and demonstrations held overnight in several countries, many of them outside United States embassies. The gatherings reflected sharply divided global reactions to Washington’s recent decision to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. While some demonstrators criticised the move as an overreach, others expressed support for the action, framing it as an opportunity to push for political change and the restoration of freedoms in Venezuela.

Speaking in an overnight interview, former US president Donald Trump was asked who ultimately holds authority over Venezuela. “Me,” he replied, while insisting that the United States is not at war with the Venezuelan state. Instead, he maintained that Washington’s focus is on criminal networks, saying, “We’re at war with people that sell drugs… that empty their prisons into our country.” His remarks underscored the US administration’s position that its actions are aimed at combating transnational crime rather than engaging in a conventional conflict.

However, the situation has also sparked debate within the United States. A senior Democratic figure criticised the US strikes on Venezuela, arguing that they lacked congressional approval. He said he intends to “confront the administration” over any proposal to deploy additional US troops to Venezuelan territory, describing such a move as a “non-starter” and emphasising the need for political oversight and restraint.

In Venezuela, the human impact of the unfolding events has come into sharper focus. Speaking publicly for the first time since his parents were taken into custody, Maduro Guerra warned of the broader implications of the situation. “If we normalise the kidnapping of a head of state, no country is safe,” he said, framing the episode as a dangerous precedent with global consequences.

Amid the uncertainty, the Venezuelan opposition has sought to redirect attention toward longstanding human rights concerns. The movement led by opposition figure María Corina Machado has formally demanded the release of all political prisoners. In a statement posted on X by her Vente Venezuela movement, the group called on authorities to act without delay. “Those who unjustly hold the civilian and military political prisoners should free them immediately,” the statement read.

Machado later reposted the message, amplifying the call and reinforcing her movement’s stance that meaningful stability can only be achieved through justice, due process, and respect for fundamental rights. Supporters say the renewed focus on political prisoners reflects growing optimism that international attention could help create momentum for dialogue, reconciliation, and a more inclusive political future for Venezuela.

Venezuela has entered a new political phase after former vice president Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president, a move officials described as a constitutional step aimed at preserving institutional stability during an exceptional period for the country.

Rodríguez took the oath of office at a formal ceremony overseen by her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, who serves as president of Venezuela’s National Assembly. The swearing-in was presented by lawmakers as a necessary measure to ensure continuity of governance while President Nicolás Maduro faces legal proceedings abroad.

In her first remarks as interim leader, Rodríguez struck an emotional tone, acknowledging the gravity of the moment and the strain it has placed on the nation. She described President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, as “two heroes,” praising their resilience and what she called their sacrifices in the face of sustained external pressure.

Rodríguez said she accepted the oath “with pain,” pointing to the hardship endured by Venezuelans as a result of what she characterised as “illegitimate military aggression” and foreign interference. She emphasised that her interim role was rooted in loyalty to the existing political project and a commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty.

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro has firmly asserted his continued leadership of the country after appearing before a United States court, where he and his wife, Cilia Flores, entered not-guilty pleas to a series of serious criminal charges.

Maduro appeared under heavy security at a federal court in New York, using the opportunity not only to reject the accusations against him but also to restate his political position. Addressing the court, he declared, “I am still president,” underscoring his refusal to recognise the legitimacy of the case or any challenge to his authority.

Both Maduro and Flores pleaded not guilty to all charges outlined in the indictment. Prosecutors listed four counts in total, including allegations of narco-terrorism conspiracy, as well as accusations relating to the possession of machine guns and other destructive devices. US authorities allege that the offences were part of a long-running effort to traffic narcotics and undermine American security interests.

The Venezuelan government has consistently dismissed the charges as politically motivated, arguing that they form part of a broader campaign of pressure and sanctions aimed at destabilising the country’s leadership. Officials in Caracas maintain that Maduro remains the constitutionally elected president and continues to exercise full control over state institutions.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, the court appearance marked a procedural step forward rather than a judgment on guilt, allowing the legal process to advance in line with due process requirements. Supporters of the Venezuelan leader say the not-guilty pleas demonstrate confidence in eventually challenging the case, while the proceedings themselves bring renewed international attention to the long-running tensions between Washington and Caracas.