A meeting between Venezuelan political leader María Corina Machado and former U.S. President Donald Trump concluded with a striking gesture: Trump shared his personal phone number with Machado, signaling a direct line of communication. Sources familiar with the meeting describe the exchange as more than a formality, but as a deliberate move to establish a continuing relationship.
A Dual Strategy in Venezuela
According to U.S. sources, Trump is pursuing a two-pronged approach regarding Venezuela. He aims to maintain existing communication channels with current power holders in Caracas, including Delcy Rodríguez, while simultaneously opening direct dialogue with Machado. This suggests an effort to exert influence and maintain control over the unfolding political situation.
The meeting itself followed a discreet protocol, mirroring a previous visit by Polish presidential candidate Karol Nawrocki. Both visits occurred outside of regular press schedules and were initially framed as private engagements. Following his meeting with Trump, Nawrocki reportedly strengthened his international profile and went on to win the presidential election weeks later.
Protocol and Discretion
The choice of the West Gate for Machado’s arrival was deliberate. Officials avoided the North Gate, which is used by the press and typically involves a more visible security process, to preserve the privacy of the encounter. Discussions regarding the meeting’s format continued until the last moment, with a key objective being to avoid a perceived undermining of Delcy Rodríguez’s authority, particularly given internal tensions following the capture of Maduro and growing concerns within the Venezuelan government regarding Diosdado Cabello.
Machado consulted with Secretary of State Marco Rubio prior to the meeting. Upon arrival at the White House around 12:30 PM, she was taken directly to the West Wing and eventually received by Trump in the Oval Office. There, they posed for photographs, including one with a replica of the Declaration of Independence. Machado presented Trump with a Nobel medal, explaining it was a gesture of gratitude for his “strength to achieve peace.”
Following the Oval Office meeting, Trump accompanied Machado to a private dining room in the West Wing, where they were joined by his Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President J.D. Vance, along with the Secretary of Defense. The group engaged in a brief discussion regarding the situation in Venezuela.
Machado publicly stated that Trump expressed concern for the Venezuelan people, emphasizing the well-being of political prisoners and those affected by poverty and malnutrition. She described the meeting as part of a “complex and delicate” process toward a democratic transition, asserting that Venezuela “will be free” with U.S. support. The meeting ultimately extended beyond its scheduled timeframe, with Machado departing approximately 45 minutes later than planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Trump sharing his personal phone number with Machado?
Sources indicate that Trump shared his number to signal a desire for direct and ongoing communication with Machado, moving beyond a purely formal or protocol-driven relationship.
What is Trump’s stated strategy regarding Venezuela?
According to sources, Trump is pursuing a dual strategy: maintaining communication with current Venezuelan officials, including Delcy Rodríguez, while simultaneously engaging directly with María Corina Machado.
Was this meeting handled in a typical, public manner?
No, the meeting was conducted with a high degree of discretion. It was not initially on the public agenda, and Machado entered the White House through a less-publicized entrance to avoid media attention.
Given the evolving dynamics in Venezuela and the establishment of this direct communication channel, what role might the United States play in shaping the country’s future?
