-Venezuela Military Names Delcy Rodriguez as Acting Leader
Here’s a breakdown of the key events and statements from the provided text,focusing on the US actions against Maduro and the Venezuelan government’s response:
Key Events:
* Maduro’s “Capture” (or Raid): Maduro and his wife,Cilia Flores,were taken into custody in New York. The Venezuelan government is calling this an “illegal and illegitimate kidnapping.” A video shows Maduro being escorted by DEA agents.
* Charges: Maduro and Flores face federal charges related to drug trafficking and collaboration with terrorist organizations. Maduro denies these charges.
* US Operation: The US conducted a raid to apprehend Maduro, resulting in reported casualties among his bodyguards (the exact number is unconfirmed).
* Trump’s Threat: Trump issued a warning to Delcy Rodriguez, stating she would “pay a very big price” if she doesn’t “do what’s right.”
Key Statements & Positions:
* Delcy Rodriguez (venezuelan Foreign Minister): Condemned the US actions as “barbaric” and a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty. She demanded the immediate release of Maduro and his wife. She also expressed willingness to have “respectful relations” with the Trump governance, despite the attack.
* Donald Trump (US President): Appeared to threaten rodriguez. He also stated that some US forces were involved and that there were some casualties.
* Marco Rubio (US Secretary of State): Described conversations with Rodriguez and the Venezuelan government as “delicate and complicated.” He emphasized the US goal remains the same, but now they have someone they can potentially work with, unlike Maduro.
* Padrino Lopez (Venezuelan Defense Minister): Claimed some of Maduro’s bodyguards were killed “in cold blood” during the raid, but did not provide specific numbers.
Overall Situation:
The situation is highly tense. The US has taken direct action against Maduro, arresting him and his wife on serious charges. Venezuela views this as a hostile act and is demanding their release. There’s a mix of condemnation and a stated willingness to engage in dialog from the Venezuelan side, while the US appears to be signaling a shift in approach now that Maduro is in custody. The potential for further escalation remains high,especially given Trump’s threat.