In a surprising move, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro extended a message of good fortune to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, suggesting a "fresh start" in the historically strained relations between the two nations. During a special broadcast aired Wednesday on the state-run VTV network, Maduro called for a "win-win" scenario that would benefit both countries as well as the broader Latin American and Caribbean region.
"This marks a new beginning where we should aim for a win-win situation to benefit the United States, Venezuela, and always advocate for a prosperous Latin America and the Caribbean," Maduro declared. He recalled that Trump's first term in office from 2017 to 2021 had not been favorable for Venezuela. However, he expressed optimism that the new administration, set to begin on January 20, 2025, might change that dynamic.
Past Tensions and Expressions of Solidarity
Maduro also touched upon the tense moments that have characterized U.S.-Venezuela relations but highlighted his solidarity with Trump during times of personal risk. "Despite the tensions in our relations, when his life was threatened on two occasions, I did not hesitate for a moment to express my solidarity, wishing him good health and a long life. Today, I wish him success in his leadership, and hope his electoral propositions have a positive outcome," the Venezuelan leader expressed.
Following Trump's electoral victory over Democrat Kamala Harris on Tuesday, Maduro voiced his readiness to foster a positive relationship with the United States. He emphasized that his administration remains open to constructive dialogue and reiterated his position as the "constitutionally re-elected president of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela."
Political Tensions and International Reactions
Maduro's statements come amid ongoing political tensions, as the U.S. government and parts of the international community question the results of Venezuela's July 28 elections. The controversy stems from the fact that Maduro was declared the winner without detailed election results being released. Opposition-held electoral records indicated a victory for Edmundo González, the candidate from the Democratic Unity Platform (PUD).
Despite the international scrutiny, Maduro's government has received backing from allies such as Cuba, Nicaragua, Bolivia, and Russia. Maduro dismisses the criticisms as interference with Venezuela's sovereignty and reaffirms his intention to start a new term on January 10. Meanwhile, figures within the Venezuelan opposition, including González, publicly congratulated Trump, along with María Corina Machado and former deputy Juan Guaidó.
Sanctions and Conflict Under Trump’s Administration
The relationship between the Maduro and Trump administrations has been fraught with conflict and economic sanctions. During Trump's first term in 2017, his administration sanctioned Maduro over the establishment of a Constituent Assembly, which the U.S. deemed "illegitimate." These sanctions involved asset freezes and restrictions on transactions between U.S. citizens and the Venezuelan government.
Additionally, the Trump administration barred the purchase of Venezuelan bonds and transactions with the state oil company PDVSA, severely impacting Venezuela's economy. Despite this history, Maduro expressed hope that Trump's new policies might have a favorable trajectory and yield positive results.
Maduro's proposal for a "new beginning" could signal a shift in the dynamics of U.S.-Venezuela relations, potentially carrying significant implications for the Latin American and Caribbean region. It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve once Trump takes office and begins implementing his policies.