On Thursday, the White House reaffirmed that President Donald Trump has not altered his stance regarding Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado. Trump perceives her as lacking the necessary support and respect within Venezuela to lead the transition following the fall of Nicolás Maduro's regime.
After hosting the Nobel Peace Prize winner at the White House, Trump's press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed during a press briefing that the Republican leader maintains the same assessment he expressed in early January.
Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, Trump surprised many by describing Machado as "a very nice woman" but lacking the legitimacy required to govern the South American country.
"The president's evaluation is based on a realistic assessment informed by his advisors and national security team," Leavitt stated. "At this moment, his opinion on this matter remains unchanged," she added.
Leavitt also highlighted that Trump "looked forward to having a positive conversation" with the opposition leader, whom he met on Wednesday at the White House. However, she reiterated that Washington's position on Venezuelan leadership "is grounded in the reality on the ground."
She emphasized that the U.S. president "remains committed to the hope that elections will one day be held in Venezuela," though she clarified that there is currently no set timetable. "The president wishes for the Venezuelan people to freely decide their future, but today I have no date to offer," she noted.
The meeting between Trump and Machado took place a week after the president described Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president appointed by chavista institutions, as "a wonderful person" and "a figure with whom we can work," sparking controversy among Venezuelan opposition sectors.
The White House emphasizes that the current priority in Venezuela is to ensure stability and the delivery of humanitarian aid before establishing definitive leadership. This comes as the United States exercises direct control over the political transition following Maduro's capture and the detainment of his inner circle.
Trump's Perspective on Venezuela's Transition
What is Trump's view on María Corina Machado's leadership?
Trump views María Corina Machado as lacking the necessary support and respect within Venezuela to lead the country's transition.
What are the current priorities of the U.S. in Venezuela?
The U.S. is focused on ensuring stability and delivering humanitarian aid in Venezuela before establishing a definitive leadership.
Has Trump indicated a timeline for elections in Venezuela?
No specific timeline has been set for elections in Venezuela, although Trump hopes they will eventually occur.