Donald Trump issued a firm warning to Venezuela’s incoming leader, Delcy Rodríguez, saying she could face heavy consequences if she does not follow the path set out by the United States. BBC
Donald Trump has delivered a blunt warning to Venezuela’s incoming leader, Delcy Rodríguez, saying she could face harsher consequences than her predecessor if she fails to follow what he called the “right” path. Trump made the remarks during an interview as former president Nicolás Maduro prepared to appear in a New York court on Monday.
“If she doesn't do what's right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro,” Trump said.
Maduro faces charges linked to drug trafficking and weapons offences. US authorities accuse him of leading a criminal state, a claim he has denied repeatedly.
New Leader Signals Willingness to Talk
Rodríguez, who previously served as vice president, struck a calmer tone during her first cabinet meeting on Sunday. She called for dialogue and cooperation with the United States.
“We invite the US government to collaborate with us on an agenda of co-operation orientated towards shared development within the framework of international law,” she said.
With backing from Venezuela’s Supreme Court and military leaders, Rodríguez plans to take the oath of office Monday morning in Caracas.
US Defends Military Operation
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States does not consider itself at war with Venezuela. He spoke after weekend air strikes in Caracas led to the arrest of Maduro and his wife, who were flown to the US.
“We are at war against drug trafficking organisations. That's not a war against Venezuela,” Rubio said.
Rubio added that Washington would judge Venezuela’s new leadership by its actions and keep several options available to protect US interests, including continued limits on Venezuelan oil exports.
Strong Reaction at Home and Abroad
Trump also said the US would oversee Venezuela until what he described as a safe transition could take place. He added that American oil companies would help rebuild the country’s infrastructure.
Despite those statements, Maduro’s political allies still hold key positions. Cuba said 32 of its fighters died during the US operation and declared two days of mourning.
In the United States, several Democratic lawmakers sharply criticized the military action. They said the operation went far beyond a law enforcement effort and lacked approval from Congress.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the strike “an act of war,” while Senator Chuck Schumer questioned its legality.
“You don't treat lawlessness with other lawlessness,” Schumer said.
Both lawmakers pledged support for a motion that would block further US action in Venezuela without congressional consent.
Regional Concerns Grow
Several countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and Spain, issued a joint statement warning that the US move could threaten regional stability and civilian safety. Meanwhile, Trump also directed sharp criticism at Colombia, refusing to rule out military action there.
As Maduro prepares to face court proceedings in New York, uncertainty continues to surround Venezuela’s future and the region’s response to Washington’s bold actions.
