The power circle of Maduro faces a crisis of legitimacy and popular discontent.

The circle of power surrounding Nicolás Maduro has consolidated over the years, despite many doubting his ability to maintain control after the death of Hugo Chávez. After more than a decade in power, Maduro has managed to surround himself with a group of loyalists who have played key roles in the Chavista administration. However, this group faces growing questioning regarding its legitimacy and management of the crisis in the country, which puts its future in doubt. Among the most prominent members of this circle are Cilia Flores, Diosdado Cabello, Vladimir Padrino, and the siblings Jorge and Delcy Rodríguez. These individuals are not only heirs to Chavista ideology, but they have also used their influence and connections to remain in power, even as the country goes through one of its deepest crises. The lack of transparency in the electoral process of July 28, where Maduro was proclaimed the winner, has intensified skepticism both inside and outside of Venezuela, with the National Electoral Council being the target of these criticisms. Cilia Flores, nicknamed "the first combatant," has played a prominent role in Venezuelan politics since its inception. Her career began with Chávez's movement in 1992, and since then she has held several significant positions, including that of Attorney General. Her influence in the government has been bolstered by the notoriety of her relatives, who have been subject to international sanctions for their alleged involvement in corruption and drug trafficking. Although she has adopted a more traditional role as first lady in recent years, her role in policy formulation remains significant. Diosdado Cabello, considered by many to be the number two in Chavismo, has also played a crucial role in consolidating Maduro's power. His political career has been marked by various controversies and accusations of corruption, as well as his close association with Chávez. Although there have been rumors of rivalry with Maduro, analysts agree that both politicians operate aligned with each other and that Cabello's loyalty to Maduro is unwavering, allowing him to maintain his status within the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV). For his part, Vladimir Padrino, the current Minister of Defense, has been a stabilizing element within the Bolivarian National Armed Forces. His tenure in office for nearly ten years is unusual in a context where other officials are often replaced quickly. Padrino has managed to handle the different groups within the military institution, and despite criticism, he has managed to maintain the cohesion necessary to ensure military support for Maduro's government. His influence is such that the Armed Forces today are largely considered a reflection of him. In the political arena, Jorge Rodríguez has been a key figure since the beginnings of Chavismo. His role as rector of the National Electoral Council and his closeness to Chávez have positioned him as a significant political operator. Rodríguez has led government negotiations with the opposition and other foreign actors, consolidating his place as one of Maduro's main advisors. Many analysts see him as a possible successor to the president, given his leadership capacity and experience in the state apparatus. Delcy Rodríguez, in her role as vice president and Minister of Oil, has also been fundamental in the machinery of the government. Her role has increased since Maduro came to power, and she currently has a series of responsibilities that place her at the center of Venezuelan politics. Despite the sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union, she has vigorously defended her position, accusing these measures of being a form of political extortion. The close circle around Maduro not only faces an internal challenge but is also pressured by international sanctions that have severely impacted the country's economy. Maduro's administration has sought to maintain stability through a series of economic and political measures, but the lack of tangible results has generated discontent among the population. The humanitarian crisis, hyperinflation, and massive emigration of Venezuelans have highlighted the shortcomings of a model that, according to many critics, has failed. As the situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate, the future of this circle of power is uncertain. The loyalty of each of its members could be put to the test if the country's conditions continue to worsen and if a viable alternative emerges that can challenge the status quo. However, for now, Maduro and his loyalists seem aware that they must cling to power at all costs, using any means necessary to maintain their position in an increasingly hostile environment. In conclusion, the circle of power surrounding Nicolás Maduro has managed to survive various challenges throughout his term. However, the growing crisis of legitimacy, international sanctions, and popular discontent threaten to destabilize this structure. In this context, the actions and decisions of the president's closest members will be crucial in determining the political future of Venezuela and, potentially, their own fate.