By Luciana Restrepo
On January 10th, 2025, Nicolás Maduro reinstated himself in the Venezuelan government, despite years of opposition, protests, and hope for change. Recently, figures like María Corina Machado and Edmundo González fought tirelessly to end his regime, inspiring millions. But when the long-awaited day arrived, many hoped for action that would leave Venezuela a free democratic state. Nonetheless, Maduro saluted from the streets, made jokes at his inauguration dinner, and solidified his position as the nation’s leader. Maduro’s presidency is unlikely to end anytime soon, and here is why:
A Lack of International Aid
Historically, nations taken over by dictators have played a key role in their removal from power Despite numerous economic sanctions, a $ 25 Million bounty for Maduro and his other 15 officials, and the rejection of his victory by over 10 states and the European Union, his regime has remained firmly in power.. All these measures act as a polite request, saying “Please leave.” What’s truly needed is more than just words or sanctions—it’s action.
The only way to force Maduro out is by implementing such overwhelming pressure that staying in power becomes a greater risk than stepping down. There is a need for decisive intervention. For instance, the 1990 U.S. military intervention that ended the regime of Panamanian strongman Manuel Noriega, leading to his 27-year imprisonment, or the 2011 operation that eliminated Osama Bin Laden. Until another nation takes decisive action and makes a genuine effort, Maduro will remain in power, continuing to inflict endless harm on the Venezuelan people.
A Weakened Opposition
Many expected such action with Maria Corina Machado, a face of hope and resilience for Venezuelan society. When she was banned from being a presidential candidate, Edmundo Gonzales ran in her place, continuing Venezuela’s fight for freedom. However, after the 2024 election, Maduro claimed victory with 52% of the votes. It was a fraudulent decision, coerced by none other than Nicolas Maduro’s government. Despite wide corruption allegations, nothing came by it, and the opposition didn’t just lose the election—it lost its unity.
Gonzales fled Venezuela after being granted asylum in Spain. He only informed Machado about his decision two days before his departure. Maria Corina was also ‘allegedly’ kidnapped and later freed by force, a mere week before the inauguration was said to take place. Without a unified front and effective strategies, they lack the necessary strength to remove Maduro from power.
Strong Allyship in the West
Maduro has been cultivating relationships with nations towards the East that would not only take him in but benefit from his power. While countries in the West have imposed sanctions and rejected his leadership, the regime has been organizing illegal oil trading schemes with nations such as India and China and strengthened ties with Turkey, Russia, and Iran.
This provides Maduro with a sense of security, allowing him to sustain his corrupt practices and maintain loyalty through strategic incentives to officials and military officers.The alliance isn’t just beneficial to Maduro, it benefits these countries as well. Not only do they benefit from lower oil prices, but the leaders of said nations can indulge in other (illegal) activities. It’s not in these countries’ interest to see him removed. Maduro has the backing he needs to keep his unethical practices in motion, making it even harder for his regime to be overthrown.
Nicolás Maduro’s grip on Venezuela remains firmly intact and shows no signs of weakening anytime soon. The opposition isn’t unified, the international community hasn’t done enough, and his powerful allies overseas keep him afloat. While the Venezuelan people have fought hard for change, the odds are stacked against them. Without stronger action from other nations, a more united opposition, or a significant tear in his alliances, Maduro will keep his powerful grip on the nation, leaving Venezuela in despair.
