On Saturday, Donald Trump once again stirred the political waters in Latin America with a statement that has already sparked reactions both inside and outside Venezuela.
The former U.S. President declared that his administration plans to take control over Venezuela and its oil revenues following the capture of Nicolás Maduro. He announced that Delcy Rodríguez will lead a transitional government under conditions set by Washington.
Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago residence, Trump stated that the United States would manage Venezuela “until a fair democratic transition is achieved.” He cited Venezuela’s deteriorating infrastructure as a reason, promising that oil resources would be used to benefit the Venezuelan people and to compensate the U.S. for past expropriations.
“We will run this country properly, ensuring the Venezuelan people are well cared for,” Trump declared, while not ruling out further military actions if factions of the Chavista regime attempt to regain control.
The most controversial aspect of his remarks was the reference to the Venezuelan Vice President. According to Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in talks with Delcy Rodríguez, whom he described as willing to “do what we believe needs to be done to make Venezuela great again,” echoing the phrase Make Venezuela Great Again.
Trump indicated that Rodríguez would lead a transitional government, with the U.S. ensuring security and managing strategic resources, particularly oil. “We will extract a lot of money to care for the country,” he stated, without specifying timelines or mechanisms.
Trump lauded the capture of Maduro as “one of the best-executed plans since World War II,” claiming that the Chavista leader was detained alongside his wife, Cilia Flores, and brought to the U.S. to face charges of drug trafficking and organized crime. He also mentioned Diosdado Cabello as another figure who must face justice.
Meanwhile, from Caracas, Delcy Rodríguez publicly demanded proof of life for Maduro and his wife, fueling uncertainty about who truly holds power in the country.
In the streets of Venezuela, reactions are mixed. Some celebrate what they perceive as the end of an era, while others fear that U.S. intervention could exacerbate the conflict.
For millions of Cubans, both on the Island and abroad, the unfolding events in Venezuela are of significant concern. What happens in Caracas could directly affect Havana, both economically and politically, at a time when both nations are grappling with intense internal pressures.
Impact of U.S. Involvement in Venezuela
What are the implications of U.S. control over Venezuela?
U.S. control over Venezuela could lead to significant changes in the country's governance and economic structures, emphasizing a shift towards democratic processes and potentially impacting its oil industry management.
How might Delcy Rodríguez's role affect Venezuela's political landscape?
If Delcy Rodríguez assumes leadership under U.S. terms, it could signal a transformation in Venezuela’s political dynamics, possibly leading to new alliances and policy changes aimed at stabilizing the country.
What are the potential consequences for Cuba if the U.S. intervenes in Venezuela?
Cuba could experience significant repercussions, both economically and politically, due to its close ties with Venezuela. Changes in Venezuela could alter the balance of support and resources that Cuba receives.