Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, stated Wednesday that her government has opened a “space for political dialogue,” but warned that those who “intend to perpetrate harm and aggression” against Venezuela should remain in Washington.
Rodríguez Affirms Government Control, Calls for Dialogue
“I have a very clear message to the extremists in Venezuela and their international connections,” Rodríguez said during an event where she was recognized as commander-in-chief of the National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB), who pledged their loyalty to her.
“Let all those who love Venezuela come, but those who intend to perpetrate harm and aggression against the people of Venezuela, let them stay in Washington,” she added from the Patio de Honor of the Military Academy, located in Fuerte Tiuna, one of the country’s main military complexes.
During the ceremony, broadcast by the state channel Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López swore “absolute loyalty and subordination” to Rodríguez on behalf of the FANB and presented her with the baton of command. “We recognize you as the acting president and commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and police forces,” he said.
Opposition Leader Claims U.S. Support for Transition
Meanwhile, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado affirmed Wednesday that her political movement has the support of the United States to achieve a transition in Venezuela, following a private meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
“Today I can assure Venezuelans that the transition to democracy will take place because we have the support of the most important democracies in the world and, especially, the government of President Donald Trump and his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio,” Machado declared.
Prior to the meeting with the opposition leader, Rubio addressed the Venezuelan situation during a hearing before the U.S. Senate, stating that the Trump administration is observing progress in Venezuela and the work of the interim authorities. However, he clarified that Washington does not expect a transition to be completed in the short term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Delcy Rodríguez’s position in Venezuela?
Delcy Rodríguez is the acting president of Venezuela, having assumed the role following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
What did María Corina Machado say about U.S. support?
María Corina Machado stated that her political movement has the support of the United States government, specifically President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in achieving a transition to democracy in Venezuela.
What was Marco Rubio’s assessment of the situation in Venezuela?
Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. government is observing progress in Venezuela, but does not anticipate a swift transition.
Given these competing claims and expressions of support, what role will international actors ultimately play in shaping Venezuela’s future?
