President Trump continues to engage directly in Venezuelan affairs, recently confirming a new conversation with opposition leader María Corina Machado. He stated, “I like her a lot.” Machado has spent the past week in Washington, D.C., meeting with U.S. officials to garner support for her cause.
Shifting U.S. Approach to Venezuela
The President revealed the conversation with Machado while traveling from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He described Machado as “a great woman… a very good woman who has been through a lot.” This follows a meeting last week where Machado presented Trump with the Nobel Peace Prize medal she received in October.
Despite expressing a positive relationship with Machado, President Trump also affirmed his support for current Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez, stating she “has demonstrated very strong leadership.” He reiterated this dual approach, saying, “I also spoke with María (Corina Machado) today and I like her very much, but Delcy (Rodríguez) has demonstrated very strong leadership.”
This suggests the U.S. is maintaining multiple avenues of influence in Venezuela. Trump indicated a possible future role for Machado, stating, “Maybe we can get her involved somehow. I would love to be able to do that.” Machado has been actively lobbying U.S. lawmakers and international organizations, emphasizing the need for a political transition in Venezuela and the release of political prisoners.
Since removing Maduro from power, the Trump administration has supported Rodríguez’s presidency. The U.S. President has frequently highlighted the cooperation with Venezuelan authorities, who have already delivered 50 million barrels of oil to Washington. The White House has made clear its interest in controlling Venezuela’s oil reserves and revitalizing the crude oil industry, with plans to involve major U.S. oil companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of U.S. involvement in Venezuela?
The Trump administration removed Nicolás Maduro from power on January 3rd and has since supported Delcy Rodríguez as president, while also engaging in conversations with opposition leader María Corina Machado.
What has Machado been doing in Washington?
Machado has been meeting with U.S. legislators, international organizations, and other power centers to advocate for a political transition in Venezuela and the release of political prisoners.
What is the U.S. interest in Venezuela’s oil reserves?
The White House has stated its desire to control Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and revitalize the crude oil industry, involving major U.S. oil companies in the process.
Given the complex interplay of support for both current and opposition leaders, what impact might this dual approach have on the future of Venezuela’s political landscape?
