ALBAWABA - The crisis in Venezuela has entered a more complicated phase after a series of U.S. statements outlined how President Donald Trump’s administration views the future of power in the country, following Washington’s announcement of a military operation that led to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro.
While U.S. officials have pointed to a range of political and security options, developments inside Caracas suggest that the remaining leadership of the Venezuelan system is determined to retain control and reject externally imposed arrangements.
U.S. Exploring Post-Maduro Scenarios
Former U.S. State Department official Thomas Warrick said that leaked information indicates the existence of discreet contacts between Washington and figures within Maduro’s former circle. Speaking on Al Jazeera’s Beyond the News, Warrick said the Trump administration believes it may be possible to work with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, despite her close political alignment with Maduro and the ruling revolutionary camp.
Warrick speculated that the White House might be counting on shifts within the political landscape, pointing out that history shows officials sometimes switch sides when things get tough. He also mentioned that preparations for a post-Maduro Venezuela started weeks before the military action, with various possibilities being discussed privately.
Warrick believes Washington will probably give Rodríguez a short time to prove her willingness to work together before exploring other options.
Caracas Responds
Phil Gunson, an analyst with the International Crisis Group, observed that the Venezuelan leadership is mainly focused on its own people, broadcasting a strong message of defiance and a refusal to bow to outside influence.
Gunson suggested that the public appearance of the defense and foreign ministers alongside Rodríguez was likely intended to signal internal unity, while still leaving room for practical talks. He stressed that any interim government would be heavily influenced by the Venezuelan military's stance, pointing out that no one can govern without their support.
He also stated that the United States probably wouldn't try to directly run Venezuela, but would instead push for a collaborative leadership that could keep things stable.
Regional unease is mounting.
Political analyst Ali Farhat cautioned that the consequences of Venezuela's troubles are felt far and wide.
Latin American governments are keeping a close eye on the situation, particularly in light of U.S. warnings that have also implicated nations like Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico, with Brazil expressing growing unease.
Farhat pointed out that the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) has convened an emergency meeting to address the matter and try to develop a coordinated response.
He further observed that the images of Maduro's detention delivered a powerful message to leaders across the region, suggesting that Washington might be using Venezuela to reshape its strategy in Latin America. Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, and Spain, among others, have released statements denouncing U.S. intervention and advocating for adherence to international law and national sovereignty.
