Title: The Enduring Influence of Diosdado Cabello in Venezuela’s Political Landscape The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. special forces has undoubtedly shaken the political landscape of South America, but it hasn’t led to a democratic opening as many had hoped for. One reason behind this is the continued presence and influence of Diosdado Cabello, who remains in power under interim President Delcy Rodríguez. Cabello, Maduro’s most hardline enforcer, has been indicted in the United States on drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges alongside other associates. Despite these allegations, he continues to hold significant power within Venezuela’s government. His recent appearance on the streets of Caracas wearing a helmet and flak jacket, condemning the U.S. operation as a “cowardly attack,” demonstrates his unwavering support for Maduro and his regime. The historical context behind Cabello’s influence is rooted in Venezuela’s Bolivarian revolution led by Hugo Chávez. As Minister of Interior, Cabello has played an essential role in maintaining the authoritarian grip on power that was established during Chávez’s tenure. His loyalty to Maduro and his willingness to use force against opponents have made him a central figure within Venezuela’s government. The potential implications of Cabello’s continued influence are significant, as it suggests that any hope for democratic reform in the country may be short-lived. With Cabello still holding key positions within the Venezuelan government, there is little chance of meaningful change taking place anytime soon. This raises concerns about the future stability and direction of Venezuela as a nation. From my perspective, this situation highlights the complex nature of political power dynamics in South America. While the capture of Maduro by U.S. special forces may have been seen as a victory for democracy, it has not led to the immediate transformation many had hoped for. Instead, it has revealed that there are still powerful figures within Venezuela’s government who remain committed to maintaining their authoritarian rule. In conclusion, Diosdado Cabello’s enduring influence in Venezuelan politics is a stark reminder of how difficult it can be to dismantle entrenched power structures and establish democratic governance. As long as individuals like Cabello continue to hold significant positions within the government, any hopes for meaningful change will likely remain unfulfilled. It is crucial that international efforts focus not only on removing Maduro from power but also addressing the root causes of corruption and authoritarianism in Venezuela’s political system.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2026/01/18/nx-s1-5678974/venezuela-maduro-enforcer-cabello)
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