Venezuela’s Cilia Flores, Frist Lady, Subject of US Congressman’s Claim of Potential Power Shift
Washington D.C. – U.S. Congressman Carlos Giménez has publicly suggested that Cilia Flores, wife of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, may be positioning herself to take control of the country, potentially even betraying her husband. The claim comes amid escalating tensions between venezuela and the United States over drug trafficking concerns and a significant military deployment by both nations.
Flores is widely considered one of the most powerful figures in Venezuela, a reputation solidified over decades of cultivating influence within the nation’s power structures. Forbes magazine previously described her as “the most powerful woman in Venezuela,” noting her extensive network of collaborators that allow her to exert control over key aspects of the country’s political system. She often operates “hidden in the shadows,” according to the magazine’s reporting.
Giménez, in a recent social media post, stated that sources indicate Flores intends to govern Venezuela, characterizing Maduro as a “puppet” controlled by his wife. He claimed this assessment was relayed to American officials by individuals familiar with the situation. “It is commented that Cilia Flores…be the one to deliver it,” Giménez wrote,referring to Maduro.
The timing of these allegations coincides with a period of heightened friction between Caracas and washington. The U.S. has announced the deployment of three destroyers to international waters near Venezuela as part of operations targeting drug trafficking.In response, Maduro’s government has deployed 15,000 troops to the border with Colombia, citing a need to combat drug trafficking.
Diosdado Cabello, a prominent figure within the Maduro government, vehemently rejected U.S. accusations that Maduro leads a cartel known as Los Soles,and criticized the focus on Venezuela,asserting that “87% of the drug leaves Colombia.”
the accusations against Maduro and Los Soles relate to allegations of high-level involvement in drug trafficking operations, with the U.S. offering rewards for information leading to their arrest. The “Cartel of the Suns” is alleged to be a network of Venezuelan military officials involved in the drug trade.
Cilia Flores’s rise to power has been closely linked to her long career in Venezuelan politics. before becoming First Lady, she served as a public defender, a congresswoman, and as venezuela’s Attorney general. Her legal background and political acumen have been instrumental in building her network and consolidating her influence.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant political upheaval in Venezuela. The claims made by Congressman Giménez, while unconfirmed, add another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation, raising questions about the future of maduro’s leadership and the potential for a shift in power dynamics within the country.