President Donald Trump revealed Wednesday that he spoke by phone with Delcy Rodríguez, the newly appointed leader of Venezuela, describing her as a “fantastic person.” The conversation comes after Trump indicated a willingness to meet with Rodríguez following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
Details of the Call Between Rodríguez and Trump
“Today we had an excellent conversation and she is a fantastic person. In fact, she is someone we have worked very well with,” Trump stated to the press in the Oval Office. He added that the call was “long,” covered “many topics,” and that he is “getting along very well with Venezuela.”
Trump later revealed they are making “extraordinary progress” in helping Venezuela “stabilize and recover.” Discussions included topics such as oil, minerals, trade, and national security. “This alliance between the United States and Venezuela will be spectacular for everyone. Venezuela will soon be great and prosperous again,” the President asserted.
The President made these statements one day before hosting Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado at the White House, though Machado has been excluded by the U.S. from Venezuela’s transition process.
Rodríguez, in turn, stated on social media that the conversation with Trump was “long, productive and courteous,” taking place in a framework of mutual respect. She indicated they discussed a bilateral agenda for the benefit of both countries and “pending issues” in the relationship between the Venezuelan government and the current administration.
Trump Claims U.S. Oversight of Venezuelan Government
Delcy Rodríguez assumed her position after the capture of Nicolás Maduro. Trump maintains that the United States maintains oversight of the Venezuelan Government. Rodríguez also reported Wednesday that 406 political prisoners have been released in the country in recent days, with the process of excarceration “remaining open,” though a list of those released has not been published.
Rodríguez made these statements alongside her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, the chief negotiator for the Venezuelan government, and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the phone call between Trump and Rodríguez?
The phone call occurred following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3rd, and Trump’s previous indication that he was open to meeting with Rodríguez.
What topics were discussed during the call?
According to Trump, the call covered many topics including oil, minerals, trade, and national security. Rodríguez stated they discussed a bilateral agenda and “pending issues.”
Was María Corina Machado involved in these discussions?
No, Machado was scheduled to meet with President Trump the day after the call with Rodríguez, but has been excluded from the U.S.-led transition process in Venezuela.
What impact will this new dynamic between the U.S. and Venezuela have on the country’s future?
