Even with the release of six American hostages in Venezuela, the United States government remains unwavering in its stance toward Nicolás Maduro's regime. The U.S. continues to reject the legitimacy of Maduro's rule following the 2024 elections, which Washington and several allies have deemed fraudulent.
Mauricio Claver-Carone, the State Department's special envoy for Latin America, clarified that the meeting between Richard Grenell, Donald Trump's special missions representative, and the Venezuelan leader was not a negotiation. Instead, it was a platform to convey specific demands from the U.S. administration.
These demands include the deportation of Venezuelan criminals residing in the U.S., namely the detained members of the violent Tren de Aragua gang, and the immediate release of all American citizens unlawfully detained in Venezuela, as reported by EFE.
Direct Demands and Firm Stance
In his statements to the press, Claver-Carone emphasized, "Venezuelan criminals from gangs like Tren de Aragua must be deported, and Venezuela is obligated to accept them. It's their responsibility." He also stressed that the Maduro regime must act on releasing unjustly imprisoned Americans.
"If these requests are not fulfilled, there will be consequences," warned Claver-Carone, highlighting Trump's firm stance of maximum pressure against the Chavista government. He also ruled out any negotiations regarding Venezuelan oil, stating that the U.S. does not rely on this resource and that its energy policy focuses on self-sufficiency.
Meeting in Miraflores and Global Reactions
The meeting between Grenell and Maduro took place at the Miraflores Palace, where the Chavista regime reiterated the need to "shift" bilateral relations. However, the White House swiftly dismissed any interpretation suggesting recognition of the Venezuelan leader.
Karoline Leavitt, Trump's press secretary, reaffirmed that the U.S. position remains firm in disregarding Maduro's re-election and maintaining economic sanctions. Meanwhile, Washington's allies in the region, including Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic, continue to support the U.S. stance against the Venezuelan electoral fraud.
The international community and Venezuelan exiles closely monitor the Trump administration's next moves in its strategy towards Venezuela. Despite gestures and statements that have raised concerns among opposition groups and civil society, the administration remains committed to pressuring the Chavista regime.
Notably, the decision to cancel the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan migrants has sparked significant unease. This policy, which provided an additional 18 months (until October 2026) of protection from deportation and work permits, could severely impact over 600,000 Venezuelans currently in the U.S., who may face the possibility of being sent back to their homeland in the coming months.
Concerns and Implications of U.S. Policy on Venezuela
What is the U.S. stance on Nicolás Maduro's regime?
The United States does not recognize Nicolás Maduro's regime as legitimate following the 2024 elections, which it considers fraudulent, and maintains a policy of maximum pressure against his government.
What demands has the U.S. made to Venezuela?
The U.S. demands the deportation of Venezuelan criminals, including members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and the immediate release of American citizens detained in Venezuela.
How has the international community reacted to the U.S. position on Venezuela?
Many of the United States' allies in the region, such as Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic, have supported the U.S. stance against the Venezuelan electoral fraud.