Trump Calls Venezuela’s Interim President Amid Political Shift

URGENT UPDATE: US President Donald Trump has just confirmed a significant phone call with Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, marking their first direct contact since the ousting of former leader Nicolás Maduro. During a press briefing in the Oval Office on January 3, 2024, Trump described the conversation as “great,” emphasizing that Rodriguez is a “terrific person.”

The call comes at a crucial moment as Venezuela navigates a potential political transformation following Maduro’s capture in a deadly US special forces operation. Trump stated on social media that they discussed a wide range of topics, including oil, minerals, trade, and national security, asserting that “we are making tremendous progress.”

Rodriguez, who is attempting to balance US demands with the loyalty of Maduro’s supporters, characterized the conversation as “productive and courteous.” She highlighted the establishment of a “bilateral work agenda” aimed at benefiting both nations, signaling a new chapter in US-Venezuelan relations.

In a press conference earlier, Rodriguez declared that Venezuela is entering a “new political era,” which includes a commitment to ideological and political diversity. This shift follows the release of dozens of political prisoners under pressure from Washington. Rodriguez reported that 406 political prisoners have been released since December, although human rights organizations, like Foro Penal, contest this figure, citing only 180 freed.

On the ground, the release of detainees continues, with 17 journalists and media workers freed today. Among those released is Roland Carreño, a prominent opposition activist, who called for “peace and reconciliation” in a video shared by fellow journalists. The Venezuelan government has opted for discreet releases, avoiding public celebrations by freeing detainees in unannounced locations.

Trump has sidelined opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, stating she lacks the necessary “respect” in Venezuela. However, Machado, currently abroad, is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House on Thursday to advocate for a more prominent role for the opposition in the transitional government.

As developments unfold, many are watching closely to see if this interaction between Trump and Rodriguez signals a lasting shift in US involvement in Venezuelan affairs, especially concerning access to the country’s oil reserves. The international community remains alert as this situation evolves, with implications for both US foreign policy and the future of Venezuela.

Stay tuned for more updates on this rapidly changing story.