Russia's Foreign Ministry has dismissed reports claiming Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez is currently in Moscow, labeling them as “fake news” in a statement released on Saturday, January 3. The denial follows conflicting media narratives about Rodriguez's whereabouts after U.S. forces reportedly captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro earlier this week.
Spanish outlets 20 Minutos, The Objective, and Vozpopuli initially reported Rodriguez had conducted a phone interview with Venezuelan state TV from Moscow. However, Cuban news agency Prensa Latina later cited Venezuelan national press sources asserting she remains in Caracas. The conflicting claims highlight the geopolitical tensions surrounding Venezuela's leadership crisis.
Venezuela's Supreme Court formally ordered Rodriguez to assume the role of acting president on Saturday, following Maduro's capture. Analysts suggest the leadership transition could intensify diplomatic friction between Washington, Moscow, and regional allies.
While Russia maintains its position as a key Venezuelan ally, the Kremlin's prompt denial of Rodriguez's alleged presence on its territory underscores the delicate balance of international relations in this unfolding crisis. Business leaders and political observers are closely monitoring potential impacts on global energy markets, given Venezuela's significant oil reserves.
