President Donald Trump has called on Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, to comply with US demands, as senior Republicans scramble to distance themselves from his earlier claim that the United States would “run” Venezuela. Trump made the remark after US forces abducted Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
Trump had initially proclaimed the US would assume control of Venezuela, but has now backpedalled. In comments to reporters, he said Rodríguez “really doesn’t have a choice” but to follow Washington’s lead, after she told US secretary of state Marco Rubio: “We’ll do whatever you need.”
Rodríguez, 56, had earlier condemned Maduro’s capture as an “atrocity” and pledged loyalty to the ousted leader. However, she appears to have shifted her stance in response to US pressure. Trump characterised her as “quite gracious” but suggested her compliance was forced.
The episode has sparked confusion within the Republican party, with senior figures questioning the administration’s strategy. The qualified claim marks a significant retreat from Trump’s earlier rhetoric, as the White House seeks to clarify the extent of US involvement in Venezuelan affairs.
