The United States, under the Trump management (2017-2021), explored ⁢potential scenarios ‌for a transition of power in Venezuela, following the⁤ possibility of Nicolás Maduro’s removal, according to a March 16, 2019, investigation by The Washington Post. These plans included analyzing proposals⁤ from the ‍Venezuelan opposition, especially those led by María Corina Machado, for a potential transition period.

Maduro, in power since ‍2013, consistently denied all criminal charges leveled against him and his regime.He maintained that the US sought regime change to gain control of Venezuela’s ample natural resources, including its vast oil reserves. He asserted that Donald Trump was attempting to overthrow him and vowed that Venezuelan citizens and the military would resist any such attempt.

Background: Venezuela’s Political and Economic ⁢Crisis

Venezuela has faced a severe political and economic crisis as the early 2010s, marked by hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods, and a decline ⁣in living standards. The crisis intensified under Maduro’s leadership, leading to widespread protests and international condemnation. ⁢The country possesses the world’s ⁤largest proven oil reserves, estimated ‌at 303.8 billion barrels ⁣as of 2022, making it a⁢ strategically significant nation.

The political crisis escalated in 2019‍ when Juan Guaidó, then-president of ​the National Assembly, ⁢declared himself interim president, arguing that Maduro’s re-election in 2018 was illegitimate.The US,along with⁢ several other countries,recognized Guaidó as the legitimate leader of Venezuela. However, Maduro retained control of the military and key state institutions.

The Washington Post Investigation and Potential Scenarios

The Washington Post report detailed ⁣discussions within⁤ the Trump administration regarding various scenarios ‌for ⁤a post-Maduro Venezuela. These included:

• A negotiated transition: Facilitating talks between Maduro and the opposition to establish a⁢ transitional government.
• Military intervention: Even though publicly downplayed,the possibility of US military ⁢intervention was reportedly considered.
• Supporting a military coup: Providing support to elements within the Venezuelan military who might be⁤ willing to overthrow Maduro.
• Recognition of Guaidó: Continuing to recognise Juan Guaidó‌ as the legitimate president and providing him with diplomatic​ and economic support.

The investigation also highlighted the opposition’s plans, led by María​ Corina Machado,‍ which focused on establishing a transitional government, organizing free and​ fair elections, and restoring democratic institutions.

María Corina Machado⁢ and the Opposition

María Corina Machado is a prominent Venezuelan politician and vocal critic ⁤of Maduro. She has consistently advocated for a peaceful and democratic transition⁣ of power. In June 2023, Machado