Trump Strategy Surprises Venezuela Opposition, Raises Questions

Clear Facts

• Following Maduro’s removal by the United States, Delcy Rodríguez, his vice president, was sworn in as interim president of Venezuela.
• The Trump administration prioritized stability by supporting Rodríguez rather than opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
• Intelligence assessments concluded Machado lacked crucial support within Venezuela to stabilize the nation after Maduro’s ouster.

After U.S. intervention led to Nicolás Maduro’s removal from power in Venezuela, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assumed the role of interim president in accordance with the country’s constitution.

The Trump administration’s decision to back Rodríguez instead of Maria Corina Machado was grounded in concerns for stability and preventing a power vacuum during a sensitive transition period.

Intelligence reports prepared for senior officials stated Rodríguez was best positioned to maintain order, while Machado’s absence from Venezuela contributed to skepticism about her ability to rally support.

Machado, despite her popularity among Western governments and democracy advocates, was unable to secure influence over Venezuela’s military or internal security services, a key in guiding the nation through change.

“We’ll do whatever you need.”

President Donald Trump described his phone call with Rodríguez and commented, “I think she was quite gracious.”

In another interview, Trump stated, “If she doesn’t do what’s right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro.”

Pedro Garmendia, a Venezuela expert, remarked, “Machado has an inherent problem from the get-go. She doesn’t control troops or hold any sort of power in Venezuela.” He also noted, “Rodríguez is an ideologue. In the long term, the Trump administration might find itself having trouble reining her in.”

President Trump was direct about not endorsing Machado, explaining, “I think it would be very tough for her to be the leader. She doesn’t have the support within or the respect within the country.”

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized, “President Trump is routinely briefed on domestic political dynamics all over the world. The President and his national security team are making realistic decisions to finally ensure Venezuela aligns with the interests of the United States, and becomes a better country for the Venezuelan people.”

Senator Marco Rubio reiterated that the administration’s approach was about the mission, not personal preference, highlighting the need for realism in U.S. foreign policy.

For more detailed coverage, visit:

Fox News: Trump Backs Maduro Loyalist Over Venezuela Opposition Leader

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