CARACAS, Venezuela — The political landscape of South America has been upended following the dramatic ouster and capture of Nicolás Maduro by United States forces. As of Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the Venezuelan foreign ministry is formally demanding the immediate release of Maduro from U.S. custody, labeling his detention a “political operation” and an “abduction.”
Interim Governance and U.S. Military Presence
In the wake of Maduro’s removal, a transitional government has begun to take shape under heavy international influence. Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan, commander of U.S. Southern Command, recently met with Venezuelan interim authorities to coordinate security and stability operations. While the “Chavismo” movement is reportedly retreating, analysts suggest it remains a potent political force that has not yet fully withdrawn from the national consciousness.
To facilitate a peaceful transition, the Venezuelan legislature recently approved a landmark amnesty bill. This legislation has already led to the release of hundreds of political detainees, including prominent activists like Jesús Armas. However, the bill remains controversial, with some critics labeling it “unjust” while human rights organizations call for unconditional releases and United Nations oversight.
The Battle for Oil and Economic Recovery
The Trump administration has moved quickly to secure Venezuela’s vast energy reserves. Reports indicate that Venezuelan oil is flowing again, but under significant U.S. oversight. Revenue from new sales is currently being deposited into accounts controlled by the U.S. Treasury, some of which are reportedly managed via financial hubs in Qatar. This “measured approach” to the petrostate’s assets is intended to fund the country’s recovery while preventing the funds from reaching remnants of the previous administration.
Economists are cautiously optimistic about a “Venezuelan Economic Renaissance.” Once the wealthiest nation in South America, Venezuela has suffered through a decade of hyperinflation and collapse. Current projections suggest that if the transition remains stable, the country could see a significant GDP rebound by 2027.
Climate and Geography: A Diverse Landscape
Despite the political turmoil, Venezuela remains one of the most geographically diverse nations in the tropics. Situated approximately 8 degrees north of the equator, the country enjoys a relatively uniform tropical climate, though conditions vary significantly by elevation:
- The Lowlands: Regions like the Maracaibo Lowlands and the Llanos experience hot, humid, and megathermal conditions with temperatures averaging around 80°F (26°C).
- The Highlands: The Andes Mountains offer a more moderate, alpine climate, providing a stark contrast to the tropical rainforests of the southern Amazon regions.
- Environmental Vulnerability: Experts note that Venezuela remains highly vulnerable to climate change, which continues to impact internal migration patterns and agricultural stability.
The Path Forward for Migrants
The nearly 8 million Venezuelans living abroad are watching the developments with a mixture of hope and caution. While the downfall of the Maduro regime has sparked celebrations in expatriate hubs like Doral, Florida, many migrants are waiting for concrete signs of long-term stability before considering a return to their homeland. The road to recovery is expected to be long, requiring deep reforms of judicial and electoral institutions to dismantle the previous repressive apparatus.