Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, has dismissed the general in charge of Nicolás Maduro’s personal security detail just days after US special forces raided Caracas, captured the former leader, and flew him to New York to face drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges.
General Javier Marcano Tábata led the presidential honor guard, the elite unit responsible for protecting the head of state. Many believe members of this guard were among the dozens killed during the intense US operation.
Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president and a longtime ally, was sworn in as interim leader by the government-controlled National Assembly earlier this week. She has struck a mix of tough and cooperative tones, calling the US action an “illegal kidnapping” while also expressing openness to working together on shared goals.
US President Donald Trump has claimed America is now effectively in charge of Venezuela and has spoken directly about dealings with Rodríguez. He warned she could face severe consequences if she doesn’t meet US demands, particularly around access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, the largest proven in the world.
Trump announced that Venezuela would hand over 30 to 50 million barrels of oil to the US, to be sold at market prices with proceeds benefiting both countries, though the interim government has not publicly confirmed this.
The firing of General Marcano Tábata marks one of the first major personnel changes under Rodríguez. He also headed the military counterintelligence agency, accused by international observers of widespread human rights abuses, including torture in secret detention centers.
His replacement comes from a similar background in intelligence, previously leading another agency linked to repression of dissent.
Analysts suggest the move is less about past abuses and more about accountability for failing to protect Maduro during the raid. Many in Venezuela felt humiliated by how easily US forces overwhelmed defenses, including Cuban advisors embedded with the guard—Cuba reported 32 of its personnel killed.
The Venezuelan military confirmed 23 of its own members died, including five generals.
With threats of further US action looming, Rodríguez appears to be consolidating power by placing trusted figures in key security roles amid growing uncertainty.