In a marked shift in tone, Delcy Rodríguez, set to assume the interim presidency of Venezuela on Monday, released a conciliatory message directed at the United States and Donald Trump following her first cabinet meeting. The message signals a potential willingness to engage with the U.S. after a period of heightened tension.
A Change in Rhetoric
Rodríguez’s statement, published on her Instagram account, affirmed Venezuela’s commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. She expressed a desire for a Venezuela free from external threats, operating within a framework of international respect and cooperation. “Venezuela reaffirms its vocation of peace and peaceful coexistence,” the message reads. “Our country aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation.”
The message prioritizes a balanced and respectful international relationship between the U.S. and Venezuela, as well as with other countries in the region, based on sovereign equality and non-interference. Rodríguez extended an invitation to the U.S. government to collaborate on a shared development agenda, operating within the bounds of international law.
Direct Appeal to Trump
Rodríguez directly addressed Donald Trump, stating, “Our peoples and our region deserve peace and dialogue, not war.” This statement echoes a sentiment previously expressed by President Nicolás Maduro, according to Rodríguez.
This shift comes hours after Trump issued a warning to Rodríguez during an interview with The Atlantic, stating that she would “pay a very high price, probably higher than Maduro” if she “doesn’t do the right thing.”
The Road Ahead
Rodríguez’s assumption of the presidency follows a decision by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice on Saturday, citing Maduro’s “forced absence” following his capture. She will be sworn in on Monday. Prior to the court’s decision, Rodríguez condemned the U.S. action as an “illegal and illegitimate kidnapping,” asserting that Maduro remains the sole legitimate president of Venezuela.
Trump had previously indicated that Rodríguez might be positioned to lead the government, but suggested she would need to align with U.S. objectives for Venezuela’s “recovery.” However, Rodríguez quickly reaffirmed her support for Maduro following Trump’s remarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will be the President of Venezuela on Monday?
Delcy Rodríguez will be sworn in as the interim president of Venezuela on Monday, following a decision by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice.
What prompted this change in tone from Delcy Rodríguez?
The shift in tone follows a direct warning from Donald Trump, and the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife by U.S. forces.
What is the current status of Nicolás Maduro?
Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by U.S. forces and transported to New York, where they are scheduled to face charges of “narcoterrorism” on Monday.
Given the rapidly evolving situation, what role will Delcy Rodríguez ultimately play in Venezuela’s future, and how will her actions shape the country’s relationship with the United States?
