Trump Backs Maduro Loyalist Amidst Tense Venezuelan Transition; Machado Sidelined
In an unexpected twist following Venezuela's political upheaval, the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump has chosen to back Delcy Rodríguez, a longtime Maduro loyalist, over the country's most prominent opposition leader, María Corina Machado. This strategy has raised eyebrows, as it seemingly deviates from Washington’s longstanding support for Venezuela’s democratic opposition.
Background and Context
Following the U.S. led operation that resulted in the capture and removal of Nicolás Maduro from power, many expected the U.S. to rally behind the opposition leader María Corina Machado. However, in a move that some analysts suggest is intended to avoid a power vacuum and maintain stability, the U.S. administration has instead chosen to engage with Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s vice president and a central figure in the outgoing regime.
Key Developments
The sidelining of Machado - the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner, who is also set to release a book in the U.S. outlining her vision for Venezuela's political reconstruction - has sparked a flurry of reactions, both domestically and internationally. Despite her strong popular mandate, Machado has been criticized by Trump as lacking the necessary support and respect within the country to take up the leadership role.
On the other hand, Rodríguez, the interim leader, has been warned by Trump to cooperate or face potentially severe consequences. This warning follows the U.S.'s daring capture of Maduro and his wife, who were subsequently airlifted to New York to face trial on charges of narcoterrorism
and illegal weapons possession.
Reactions and Implications
The U.S. administration's approach has been met with a mix of support and criticism. While some applaud the move as a calculated effort to maintain control during a fragile transition, others, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, have condemned the capture of Maduro as unlawful
and unwise.
Internationally, the situation has raised concerns about Trump's next potential target. Domestically, fears have grown over Trump's unpredictable actions and their impact on the future of Venezuela. This has led some opposition figures to turn to the constitution in a bid to pressure for elections.
Conclusion
As Venezuela's political landscape continues to shift, the question of who will lead the country in its post-Maduro era remains uncertain. While the U.S. administration has shown a preference for Rodríguez, the choice is not without controversy. Meanwhile, Machado claims her coalition is ready and willing to lead, emphasizing that the people of Venezuela have already chosen their leader. Despite the varied narratives, the hope for a peaceful and democratic transition remains a shared goal.