Trump Extends Praise to Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez after First Phone Call

In an intriguing development, the acting President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, has confirmed her commitment to continue the release of prisoners previously detained under the regime of Nicolas Maduro. Following her inaugural phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump since Maduro’s apprehension by American forces, Rodriguez characterized their dialogue as constructive and cordial.

A Positive Dialogue between Two Leaders

During a press briefing, Rodriguez, who previously served as Maduro’s vice president, highlighted that her lengthy call with Trump was both productive and respectful. The conversation covered a range of topics concerning bilateral relations that could yield mutual benefits for both countries.

Following this discussion, Trump took to his social media platform to outline the subjects of their conversation, which included oil, minerals, trade, and national security. He described the potential partnership between the U.S. and Venezuela as “spectacular.” “I think we’re getting along very well with Venezuela,” he remarked, further labeling Rodriguez a “terrific person.” He also noted that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been in contact with her.

The Context of Their Conversation

This exchange of praise comes in the wake of significant events, particularly following the military operation that resulted in the abduction of Maduro and his wife, First Lady Cilia Flores, on January 3 in Caracas. Both are currently in U.S. custody.

Trump previously indicated that a second wave of U.S. military actions against Venezuela had been postponed due to cooperation from leaders in Caracas, including ongoing prisoner releases that he framed as gestures of goodwill aimed at establishing peace with Washington.

Venezuela’s New Political Moment

In her first media appearance since Maduro’s capture, Rodriguez stated that Venezuela is embarking on a “new political moment.” She emphasized that the process of releasing detainees is ongoing and has not yet reached its conclusion. “This is an opportunity for Venezuela and its people to witness a new era of coexistence and recognition,” she proclaimed during her address.

Accompanied by her brother Jorge Rodriguez, who serves as the President of the National Assembly, and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, Rodriguez assured strict law enforcement and acknowledged Maduro’s prior actions in initiating detainee releases. “Messages of hatred, intolerance, and acts of violence will not be permitted,” she asserted.

Continued Efforts for Prisoner Releases

The commitment to further freeing prisoners comes after Jorge Rodriguez shared in parliament that over 400 detainees had recently been released. Although Venezuelan authorities deny the existence of political prisoners, there has been a persistent call from rights groups and opposition figures for the liberation of individuals held for political reasons.

Human rights organizations have criticized the pace of prisoner releases by the interim government since Maduro’s removal.

A Meeting with Opposition Leader

Looking ahead, Trump has scheduled a meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado at the White House. This meeting will be their first face-to-face encounter following Maduro’s abduction. Machado, who received the Nobel Peace Prize last year, has even offered to give Trump her prize, though the Nobel Committee clarified that such awards cannot be transferred.

Conclusion

The dialogue between Trump and Rodriguez marks a significant step in U.S.-Venezuelan relations amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and military action. Through ongoing discussions and commitments to reforms, both nations may explore avenues for improved cooperation.

• Delcy Rodriguez has pledged to continue releasing prisoners under Maduro’s presidency.
• Trump described the conversation as positive, highlighting potential U.S.-Venezuela collaboration.
• A second wave of U.S. military measures has been canceled as a gesture of goodwill.
• Rodriguez emphasized the need for coexistence and strict law enforcement in Venezuela.