Trump’s Direct Message to Delcy Rodríguez
President Trump has issued a straightforward ultimatum to Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez following the U.S. capture of President Nicolás Maduro: collaborate with Washington or the U.S. will seek alternatives.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the situation in an interview, stating that Trump’s discussions with Rodríguez have been “very matter-of-fact and very clear.” She emphasized, “You can lead, or you can get out of the way.”
Noem asserted that the Trump administration will not accept Venezuelan officials who undermine American influence and support dictators involved in crime and drug trafficking.
Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were apprehended during a dramatic U.S. military operation in Caracas and transported to New York City to face charges related to drug trafficking and terrorism. Maduro has denied these allegations.
Trump has indicated that the U.S. will temporarily oversee Venezuela and begin selling its oil reserves internationally.
Related: Marco Rubio discusses ongoing oil quarantine of Venezuela after Maduro’s capture
A key question now is who will lead Venezuela as it transitions away from Maduro’s rule. While some speculated that opposition leader Maria Corina Machado might take charge, Trump has made it clear that Rodríguez is first in line for the role. She has been serving as vice president since 2018 and was appointed by Venezuela’s high court as interim president.
Rodríguez has called for the release of Maduro but appears open to working with Washington, according to Trump. He remarked, “She’s essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again.”
Noem stated that with Maduro now detained, there is an opportunity for a new leader in Caracas who aligns more closely with U.S. interests. She added, “We’re continuing now to make sure that we have someone in place that we can work with in Venezuela that does not continue to kill our children and our grandchildren.”
