In a significant development regarding the political transition in Venezuela, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly questioned opposition figure Maria Corina Machado’s capacity to assume leadership following the dramatic removal of Nicolas Maduro. Speaking on Saturday, Trump expressed skepticism about Machado’s political viability despite the successful U.S. military operation that extracted Maduro from Caracas.
Trump characterized Machado as ‘a very nice woman’ but explicitly stated, ‘I think it would be very tough for her to be the leader. She doesn’t have the support within – or the respect within – the country.’ The comments came hours after American forces conducted targeted strikes in Venezuela’s capital and captured Maduro, who is now en route to the United States to face trial.
The President revealed that U.S. authorities had not established contact with Machado’s team throughout the operation, despite her prominent role in the opposition movement. When Newsweek sought comment from Machado’s representatives on Saturday afternoon, no immediate response was available.
Trump further outlined America’s strategic interests in Venezuela, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and energy security. ‘We have to be surrounded by safe, secure countries, and we also have to have energy – very important – we have to have energy that’s real energy,’ he stated during the press conference, indicating plans for U.S. involvement in rebuilding and expanding Venezuela’s oil infrastructure.
The administration’s stance suggests a hands-on approach to Venezuela’s political future and economic reconstruction, though specific details about interim governance arrangements remain undisclosed. This developing situation marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Venezuela relations and regional power dynamics.