Diosdado Cabello is the interior minister of Venezuela. After Nicolás Maduro's capture by American forces in early 2026, Mr Cabello dispatched colectivos—armed pro-regime vigilantes on motorbikes—to roam the streets and set up roadblocks, signalling that there was no power vacuum. He backed Delcy Rodríguez, the vice-president who was sworn in as acting president. Mr Cabello is regarded as one of the powerful figures who could try to persuade Donald Trump to change horses or gamble on a coup; Venezuela's oil and other resources are a tempting prize for any would-be leader.
The Consultant's Curse: When the customer has beaten upon you long enough, give him what he asks for, instead of what he needs. This is very strong medicine, and is normally only required once.