Phil Gunson: If Trump does not force Venezuela to hold free elections, 'they can agree on almost everything'

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez speaks with Jorge Rodriguez, president of the National Assembly, during the presentation of the government's 2026 budget bill, in Caracas, on December 4, 2025. LEONARDO FERNANDEZ VILORIA / REUTERS

Phil Gunson, a Caracas-based analyst for the conflict-prevention organization International Crisis Group, discusses the circumstances, causes and consequences of the United States' military attack on Caracas and capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

What is the situation in Caracas today?

Everything seems calm this morning [Sunday, January 4]. Yesterday, no one left their houses. People were afraid, naturally. There were a few sporadic government-organized demonstrations, but nothing more.

What remains of the Venezuelan government?