Several hundred supporters of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro staged protests in Caracas on Saturday, January 10, 2026, one week after his dramatic capture by US forces on January 3. These rallies, while significant, were notably smaller than previous demonstrations organized by Maduro's camp. Protesters waved flags and placards featuring Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, demanding their return, believing them to be "kidnapped" by the United States. Concurrently, Venezuela's interim government, led by Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez, is actively pursuing the revival of diplomatic ties with Washington. Signs of cooperation emerged after US President Donald Trump claimed to be "in charge" of the South American nation. US envoys visited Caracas on Friday, January 9, 2026, to assess the potential reopening of the US Embassy, which was shuttered in 2019. The interim government has also initiated the release of political prisoners, a move acknowledged and taken credit for by the United States as a gesture of appeasement. Interim President Rodriguez has pledged to cooperate with Trump regarding US demands for access to Venezuela's substantial oil reserves, while also working to reassure the pro-Maduro base that Venezuela will not be subordinate to Washington. This dual development highlights a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape in Venezuela, balancing internal loyalties with external diplomatic overtures following a major leadership change.