U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a sharp warning to Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez during an interview with the U.S. press, threatening severe consequences if she fails to align with U.S. demands. The remarks came amid escalating tensions after U.S. forces entered Caracas and detained Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
TRUMP: PROBABLY A BIGGER PRICE THAN MADURO
Targeting Rodriguez directly, Trump said, “If she doesn’t do what’s right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro.” He added that Venezuela may not be the last country to face U.S. intervention.
RODRIGUEZ PUSHES BACK
Following Trump’s statements, Rodriguez insisted that Nicolas Maduro remains at the head of Venezuela’s government despite his capture. She described the U.S. intervention as “an atrocity that violates international law” and said Venezuela is prepared to defend its natural resources.
FROM PRAISE TO THREAT IN 24 HOURS
Trump’s comments marked a sharp reversal from his remarks a day earlier, when he said U.S. officials had spoken with Rodriguez and claimed she appeared willing to do what Washington considers necessary to reshape Venezuela.
“WE WILL RUN VENEZUELA”
During Saturday’s press conference, Trump stated that the United States would “run” Venezuela until a democratic transition of power is achieved. He declined to provide a timeline and said U.S. troops could reenter the country if required.
RUBIO STRIKES A CAUTIOUS TONE
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio downplayed Rodriguez’s statements, saying Washington’s next steps would depend on actions rather than rhetoric. He stressed that press conferences would not determine U.S. policy toward Venezuela.
SENATE: NOT A LEGITIMATE LEADER
U.S. Senator Tom Cotton said Washington does not recognize Delcy Rodriguez as Venezuela’s legitimate leader. He argued that control over the military and security forces does not confer legitimacy and called for a U.S.-backed rebuilding of Venezuela’s government.
GREENLAND REMARKS RESURFACE
In the same interview, Trump revisited his controversial remarks on Greenland, saying the island is strategically vital for the United States and claiming it is surrounded by Russian and Chinese vessels.
