Challenges Faced by Delcy Rodríguez: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 25, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Delcy Rodríguez's life and career.

Delcy Eloína Rodríguez Gómez is a Venezuelan lawyer, diplomat, and politician currently serving as the acting president of Venezuela since January 3, 2026, following Nicolás Maduro's removal. Previously, she was the vice president of Venezuela from 2018 to 2026. Over the years, she has held several key positions under both Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, including Minister of Popular Power for Communication and Information, Minister of Foreign Affairs, President of the Constituent Assembly, head of SEBIN, and Minister of Petroleum. Her career reflects a significant involvement in Venezuelan politics and governance.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

August 2006: Rodríguez's Tenure as Minister for Presidential Affairs Ends

In August 2006, Delcy Rodríguez's tenure as Minister for Presidential Affairs ended due to reported tensions with President Hugo Chávez.

December 2016: Venezuela's Suspension from Mercosur

In December 2016, Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay deliberated on the suspension of Venezuela from Mercosur due to concerns over compliance with membership prerequisites.

September 2017: Canada sanctions Rodríguez

In September 2017, Canada sanctioned Delcy Rodríguez for her role in Venezuela's constitutional crisis.

November 2017: EU entry ban

Since November 2017, Delcy Rodríguez has been prohibited from entering the territory of the European Union.

April 2018: Mexican Senate Freezes Assets

In April 2018, the Mexican Senate approved a Point of Agreement that rejected the upcoming presidential elections and froze the assets of officials of the Maduro administration, including Delcy Rodríguez, and prohibited them from entering Mexico.

June 2018: European Union Sanctions

In June 2018, shortly after being named Vice President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez was one of eleven Venezuelan officials sanctioned by the European Union, resulting in asset freezes and a travel ban due to her role in undermining democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela.

July 2018: Switzerland Sanctions

In July 2018, Switzerland sanctioned Delcy Rodríguez, freezing her assets and imposing a travel ban, citing the same reasons as the European Union.

September 2018: United States Sanctions

In September 2018, the United States sanctioned Delcy Rodríguez for corruption and humanitarian issues by including her in OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List.

2019: Dispute over Delcy Rodríguez's Vice-Presidency Begins

In 2019, Delcy Rodríguez's vice-presidency was disputed, continuing until 2023.

2019: Colombia entry ban

In 2019, the government of Colombia included Delcy Rodríguez on a list of people banned from entering Colombia, along with approximately 200 other Maduro regime supporters and associates.

2023: Dispute over Delcy Rodríguez's Vice-Presidency Ends

In 2023, the dispute over Delcy Rodríguez's vice-presidency concluded.

January 2026: Delcy Rodríguez Becomes Acting President of Venezuela

In January 2026, Delcy Rodríguez became the acting president of Venezuela after Nicolás Maduro was captured by the United States.

January 2026: Delcy Rodríguez Ordered to Assume Presidential Powers

On 3 January 2026, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice ordered Delcy Rodríguez to assume presidential powers as acting president. On 5 January 2026, the European Union announced that it does not recognize Rodríguez's legitimacy as acting head of government.

January 2026: Maduro Abducted, Rodríguez Becomes Acting President

On January 3, 2026, Nicolás Maduro was abducted by the United States, leading to Delcy Rodríguez becoming the acting president of Venezuela. She affirmed Maduro as Venezuela's only president and was ordered by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice to assume the acting presidency, making her the first woman to hold the position.

January 2026: Rodríguez Granted Presidential Powers

On January 3, 2026, after the United States detained President Maduro, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was granted presidential powers under Article 233 of the Venezuelan Constitution. She demanded proof that Maduro was alive and was contacted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, after which she was "sworn in" as president.