Background on Key Figures and Context
Defectors from Venezuela’s security forces, who fled to Colombia years ago due to disagreements with their superiors, are now considering returning as Nicolás Maduro’s regime faces potential collapse. These ex-soldiers and police officers, once branded as traitors by the chavismo, have been in exile since leaving their uniforms about seven years ago. However, Maduro’s arrest by the U.S. has given them hope for a return and contribution to a new military leadership under a potential new government.
Who are the key figures mentioned?
- Nicolás Maduro: The former president of Venezuela, accused of narcotráfico and terrorism, who was declared not guilty in a New York court.
- Delcy Rodríguez: The vice president of Venezuela, appointed as interim leader following Maduro’s arrest. She has advocated for a respectful relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, who claims to be “in charge” of Venezuela.
- Williams Cancino: A former special operations police agent who led a group of defectors to the Venezuela-Colombia border in 2019, aiming to overthrow Maduro. He now hopes for real change in Venezuela and the establishment of a new military leadership.
- Cleberth Delgado: A former detective who collaborated with Óscar Pérez, a police pilot who rebelled against Maduro in 2017 and was later killed during an operation.
Current Situation and Demands for Change
Despite Maduro’s arrest, the current military leadership remains largely loyal to the regime. Cancino, speaking anonymously to AFP, emphasizes that “the top brass should step aside” now that Maduro is gone. He had previously resigned from his position in 2018 due to disagreements with superiors and narrowly missed being promoted to general.
Why is there a need for new military leadership?
According to Cancino and Delgado, the existing military leadership is merely an appendage of a dictatorial regime accused of human rights violations and other crimes. They argue that the top military brass must make way for genuine change and a new government.
“Now is the Time” – Hope for Real Change
Cancino, who crossed the border with a group of soldiers in 2019 to establish a command capable of overthrowing Maduro, expresses optimism about the current situation. He believes that “this time, the hope is complete” and that “freedom has finally begun in Venezuela.”
What are the defectors’ plans?
The defectors are waiting for the right moment to support a new government chosen through elections and help restore institutions in Venezuela. They aim to contribute to a new military leadership that will bring order to the country.
Intact Military Leadership
Despite Maduro’s arrest, the existing military leadership remains largely unchanged. Delcy Rodríguez, appointed as interim leader, has called for a respectful relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, who claims to be “in charge” of Venezuela. Meanwhile, key ministers like Diosdado Cabello (Interior) and Vladimir Padrino (Defense) remain in their positions, despite being wanted by U.S. authorities.
Skepticism about transition
Cleberth Delgado, a former detective and collaborator of Óscar Pérez, is skeptical about a peaceful transition in Venezuela while the old guard remains in power. Independent estimates suggest there are at least 2,000 generals benefiting from various perks within the country.
Avoiding Conflict and Civil War
Both Cancino and Delgado stress that they do not want conflict or civil war. Cancino clarifies, “We do not want to fight among brothers.” Although without Juan Guaidó, who resides in the U.S., María Corina Machado is seen by Cancino as a potential leader, despite initial indications from Trump that she might be sidelined.
