Following Nicolás Maduro’s capture by U.S. forces in January 2026 and the subsequent interim presidency of Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s political transition has centered on calls for eventual presidential elections amid ongoing stabilization efforts. The interim government and U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have stressed the need for a measured transition phase focused on institutional reforms and economic recovery before scheduling a vote, avoiding any artificial timeline. Venezuela’s constitution requires elections after a presidential vacancy, yet the National Assembly has postponed action to prioritize stability and opposition negotiations. Opposition figures, including María Corina Machado, have signaled readiness for polls within nine to ten months if electoral guarantees are secured, while international actors continue pressing for free and fair processes. These developments keep trader focus on whether a firm scheduling agreement emerges by year-end.