On Thursday, John Ratcliffe, the head of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), held discussions in Caracas with Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, as confirmed by U.S. government sources cited by CNN.
The conversation focused on potential economic collaborations, with Ratcliffe emphasizing that Venezuela "can no longer serve as a safe haven for U.S. adversaries, particularly drug traffickers," according to a confidential source.
This meeting was aimed at building trust and highlights Ratcliffe's interest in having the CIA take a more proactive and daring role in the region.
The backdrop to this meeting is President Donald Trump’s reasserted influence over Venezuela following the early January capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. special forces.
Since then, Washington has taken charge of Venezuela's transitional process and has gained control over its oil production.
Simultaneously, Trump hosted opposition leader María Corina Machado at the Oval Office, where she presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal as a gesture of gratitude and political support.
However, it became apparent during the day that Trump is backing Delcy Rodríguez as a pivotal figure to maintain order during Venezuela's transition.
Both Rodríguez and Machado are seeking Trump's political favor, as he has reiterated his commitment to ensuring Venezuela's stability under direct U.S. oversight.
Ratcliffe's meeting with Rodríguez underscores the United States' intention not only to influence Venezuelan politics but also to reshape its economic and security frameworks.
The New York Times first reported the details of the meeting between Ratcliffe and Delcy Rodríguez, with CNN later confirming the information through official U.S. sources.
Key Aspects of U.S.-Venezuela Relations
What was the purpose of John Ratcliffe's meeting with Delcy Rodríguez?
The meeting aimed to explore potential economic collaborations and emphasize that Venezuela should not be a refuge for adversaries of the United States.
How has the U.S. influenced Venezuela's political situation recently?
The U.S. has taken control of Venezuela's transitional process and oil production following Nicolás Maduro's capture by U.S. special forces.
Who is María Corina Machado and what role does she play?
María Corina Machado is a Venezuelan opposition leader who met with President Trump to express her gratitude and seek political support.