U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reiterated the demand for a full democratic transition and the establishment of free and fair elections in Venezuela, confirming that the Trump administration is "working very hard" to achieve these goals.
During an interview with Sean Hannity on Fox News, Rubio also discussed the situation in Cuba, emphasizing that the only viable option for the regime is a transition to democracy.
Focus on Venezuela's Economic and Political Future
Rubio was candid regarding Venezuela: "There are two things happening in Venezuela. First, their economy needs to continue recovering because the Venezuelan people have suffered immensely. We’re talking about 25 to 30 years of corruption and plundering."
"The other crucial aspect, which we are especially focused on, is a democratic transition. They need to hold free and fair elections in that country. We are working very hard with the 2015 National Assembly to establish the necessary conditions for free and fair elections as soon as possible," he added.
Steps Towards a Political Transition
The statements from the head of U.S. diplomacy align with a three-phase plan he unveiled in January 2026 following Nicolás Maduro's capture: stabilization, economic recovery, and political transition.
In July, Rubio confirmed the official start of the third phase with the establishment of a forum between the 2015 National Assembly and the Venezuelan government, led by Delcy Rodríguez.
Concrete steps have been taken in this process. On August 6, Dinorah Figuera, president of the 2015 National Assembly, returned to Venezuela from Spain to lead the opposition's delegation in dialogue with the Chavismo regime.
Challenges and Milestones in the Process
A significant agreement was reached a week later. The conditions Washington demands before calling elections include media freedom, the reconstruction of political parties, an independent National Electoral Council, and guarantees for the opposition.
On September 24, President Trump directly communicated with Delcy Rodríguez about the need for elections in Venezuela, and the following day, thousands of Venezuelans gathered in Caracas to demand a vote. Rubio had already disclosed a meeting with Rodríguez on September 23, asserting that the U.S. aims for a "lasting republic" in Venezuela.
Obstacles Facing Opposition Leaders
Meanwhile, the most prominent opposition figure, María Corina Machado, remains unable to return to Venezuela. The opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate left Venezuela in December 2025 for Norway, and since then, the Chavismo regime has prevented her return. On September 22, her team reported three failed attempts to enter the country from Panama in less than 24 hours.
The "Command with Venezuela" called for caravans on September 27 to demand Machado's safe return and presidential elections in 2027. The following day, her communications chief, Claudia Macero, successfully returned to Venezuela, fueling speculation about Machado's potential imminent comeback.
While Rubio did not specify a date for the elections, his message was clear: "Venezuela will truly be on the upward path it deserves" once free and fair elections are held.
Key Aspects of Venezuela's Political Transition
What are the main objectives of the U.S. in Venezuela?
The U.S. aims for a full democratic transition and the organization of free and fair elections in Venezuela, working closely with the 2015 National Assembly to achieve these goals.
What conditions does Washington require before elections in Venezuela?
Washington demands media freedom, the reconstruction of political parties, an independent National Electoral Council, and guarantees for the opposition before elections can be held.
Who is María Corina Machado, and what is her current situation?
María Corina Machado is a key opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, currently unable to return to Venezuela due to restrictions imposed by the Chavismo regime.