Trump warns Venezuela's acting president after Maduro's arrest
In a dangerous escalation of events in Latin America, US President Donald Trump a direct and strongly worded warning to Delcy Rodríguez , who assumed the interim presidency of Venezuela, threatening her with a "heavy price" if she does not fully cooperate with Washington. This warning comes after the surprise military operation carried out by US special forces on Saturday, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
In an exclusive telephone interview with the American magazine "The Atlantic," Trump stated unequivocally: "Unless Rodriguez does the right thing, she will pay a very heavy price, perhaps even more than Maduro did." These remarks indicate the US administration's intention to impose a new political reality in Caracas, relying on military force and intense diplomatic pressure.
Background to the tension and US-Venezuelan relations
This event cannot be separated from the context of years of escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. The United States has long considered the Maduro regime illegitimate, accusing it of human rights abuses and undermining democracy, in addition to previous indictments by the US Department of Justice against Venezuelan officials for involvement in illicit activities. This military operation represents the culmination of Washington's "maximum pressure" campaign, which has included crippling economic sanctions targeting Venezuela's vital oil sector.
Angry international reactions and fears of a dangerous precedent
Internationally, the US military intervention sparked widespread condemnation in diplomatic circles. A group of countries, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay, and Spain, a joint statement expressing their deep concern. The statement asserted that "the US military operation in Venezuela sets a very dangerous precedent for regional peace," emphasizing the need to resolve conflicts peacefully and diplomatically, without resorting to unilateral military interventions.
Strategic dimensions and the future of energy
The issue transcends the political dimension, touching upon strategic economic interests, as Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves. The joint statement issued by the countries opposing the operation alluded to this aspect, expressing concern over "any attempt by external powers to control or seize Venezuela's strategic natural resources." Observers believe that controlling political decision-making in Caracas could redraw the global energy map, making Venezuela's stability a vital matter for international economic security. This explains the intensity of the US warnings to Rodríguez to ensure a transfer of power that serves American interests.
