‘A real wild card’: experts struggle to predict Trump’s stance on Venezuela

Nicolas Maduro's future uncertain as Trump prepares for White House return with contrasting administration picks

Venezuela's dictator, Nicolas Maduro, has overcome the first major obstacle facing him in 2025 after staring down domestic and foreign foes to extend his 12-year rule.

[I'm] the people's president ... and I will forge ahead with the hurricane-like, volcanic strength of a people who cherish their homeland, cherish their future and cherish peace," the 62-year-old proclaimed on Friday at an inauguration his opponents vowed, but failed, to disrupt.