The United States is reportedly pushing Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, to implement several pro-American policies, with sources suggesting that the Trump administration expects her to be removed from power once she complies. According to Politico, the US is demanding that Rodriguez crack down on drug trafficking, expel operatives from countries hostile to Washington, such as Iran and Cuba, and halt oil sales to US adversaries.
Rodriguez, a former vice president and close ally of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, was sworn in as interim president after Maduro was taken into US custody in a surprise raid on Caracas. Despite condemning the US and vowing that Venezuela would not become a “colony of another empire,” Rodriguez has signaled openness to cooperation with Washington.
US officials are said to be seeking Rodriguez’s cooperation on several key issues, including holding free elections and eventually stepping aside. However, sources close to the administration have expressed confidence that they can exert control over Rodriguez, with one person describing her as being on a “short leash.” The US is reportedly using the threat of further military action, as well as sanctions relief and access to Rodriguez’s financial assets, as leverage to secure her compliance.
The Trump administration is also seeking the release of American citizens detained in Venezuela, although it has not demanded the release of all opposition figures. However, the prospects of Rodriguez complying with US demands are uncertain, given the complex and rivalrous nature of Venezuela’s political landscape. One source described the situation as “an unstable pit of vipers,” suggesting that Rodriguez may face significant challenges in navigating the country’s treacherous political terrain.
President Donald Trump has publicly stated that the US will “run” Venezuela until an “orderly transition” can be achieved, warning Rodriguez that she could face severe consequences if she resists US demands. The situation in Venezuela remains highly volatile, with the US seeking to exert significant influence over the country’s political trajectory. As the standoff between the US and Venezuela continues, the international community is watching closely to see how events will unfold.
