The Trump administration has issued a stern warning to Venezuela's influential leader Diosdado Cabello, suggesting he could become the next focus of U.S. actions if he fails to cooperate with interim president Delcy Rodríguez and meet Washington's demands following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, according to an exclusive report by Reuters.
Cabello, serving as the Interior Minister and regarded as a key figure in Venezuela's security apparatus, has control over forces accused of severe human rights abuses and has long been at odds with Rodríguez.
Sources cited by the news outlet indicate that Washington is pressuring Cabello to collaborate in order to prevent a power vacuum or potential instability in Caracas.
According to three consulted officials, the U.S. has communicated to Cabello through intermediaries a clear message: defying Washington's directives or attempting to undermine the transition could lead to repercussions similar to those faced by Maduro, who was apprehended during a U.S. military operation in Caracas and transported to New York to face narco-terrorism charges.
Nevertheless, security insiders have cautioned that taking direct action against Cabello could be risky, as it might provoke a violent reaction from armed groups loyal to the chavista regime, a scenario Washington aims to avoid.
Among other possible U.S. targets is Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, who also faces drug trafficking accusations and has a substantial bounty on his head.
According to Reuters, Washington perceives Padrino as less ideologically rigid and more open to negotiating his departure, which makes him a pivotal figure for maintaining control over the Armed Forces during the transition.
Justice Department sources have stated that the operation in Venezuela is "not yet complete," and that the U.S. seeks "maximum cooperation" from remaining regime figures to ensure security, restart oil production under conditions favorable to American companies, and expel Cuban and Iranian advisors from the country.
Meanwhile, Washington views Delcy Rodríguez as the central figure in the post-Maduro transition, though it continues to assess how to proceed toward elections and a potential negotiated exit for key chavista leaders, including Cabello.
Key Questions about U.S. Actions and Venezuela's Political Transition
What is the role of Diosdado Cabello in Venezuela?
Diosdado Cabello serves as Venezuela's Interior Minister and is a significant figure in the country's security structure, controlling forces accused of human rights violations.
Why is the U.S. targeting Venezuelan officials like Cabello?
The U.S. is targeting officials like Cabello to ensure cooperation with the transition process to avoid power vacuums and maintain stability in Venezuela.
Who is seen as a key figure in the Venezuelan transition?
Delcy Rodríguez is considered a central figure in the post-Maduro transition, playing a crucial role in moving towards elections and a potential negotiated exit for key leaders.