Washington D.C. – A potential shift in U.S. strategy regarding Venezuela emerged Tuesday as President Donald Trump signaled openness to involving opposition leader María Corina Machado in a future transition process. This comes after previously suggesting she would not be part of any such structure.
Shifting Positions on Machado’s Role
While continuing meetings with contacts in Washington and reiterating her goal to “return to Venezuela as soon as possible,” Machado received a public endorsement from President Trump. “Perhaps we can involve her in some way. I would like to be able to do that,” Trump stated during a press conference commemorating his first year in office. This marks a change in tone from earlier statements.
Trump’s comments came as his administration continues to pursue a “three-phase” plan for Venezuela focused on stabilization, recovery, and transition. The shift followed Machado’s visit to the White House last week, during which she presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize.
Continued Pressure and Collaboration
Despite the potential for Machado’s involvement, the U.S. is maintaining both pressure and collaboration with the current Venezuelan authorities. Trump announced Tuesday the interception of the oil tanker Sagitta near Venezuelan waters, the seventh such seizure in recent weeks. This is part of an effort to prevent oil smuggling following the military operation that led to the detention of President Nicolás Maduro on January 3rd. The operation to control Venezuelan oil resources is proceeding with the approval of Delcy Rodríguez.
According to a statement from the U.S. Southern Command, “This morning, U.S. military forces, in support of the Department of Homeland Security, intercepted without incident the motor vessel Sagitta.” The statement further emphasized the U.S.’s determination to ensure that any oil leaving Venezuela is “properly coordinated and legal.”
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Machado also met Tuesday with the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Albert Ramdin, to discuss the situation of political prisoners in Venezuela and advocate for respect for human rights as a prerequisite for a democratic transition. She also held meetings with Republican lawmakers Mario Díaz-Balart, María Elvira Salazar, and Carlos Giménez.
Machado stressed that “being released from prison is not the same as being free in Venezuela,” calling for the full liberation of all political prisoners and the dismantling of the country’s “repressive apparatus.” She reiterated that representatives of the current regime should not lead long-term changes in the country.
Despite her focus on returning to Venezuela, Machado acknowledged that her timeline may differ from that of President Trump, according to Democratic Representative George Meeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the U.S. “three-phase” plan for Venezuela?
The source states that the U.S. is developing a “three-phase” plan for Venezuela focused on stabilization, recovery, and transition, but does not provide further details.
What was the purpose of intercepting the Sagitta?
The interception of the Sagitta was part of an effort to prevent oil smuggling from Venezuela and to control the country’s oil resources, following the detention of President Maduro.
What did Machado discuss with the Secretary General of the OAS?
Machado discussed the situation of political prisoners in Venezuela and advocated for respect for human rights as a prerequisite for a democratic transition.
What impact will these shifting dynamics have on the future of Venezuela and the path toward a potential transition of power?
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