Trump speaks with Venezuela’s acting president amidst unrest

U.S. President Donald Trump spoke by phone on Wednesday with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez, with both leaders describing the conversation as positive and productive.

The call, the first known direct contact between Trump and Rodríguez since a U.S. military operation led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro earlier this month, focused on issues including oil, minerals, trade and security, and was characterized by Trump as a “long, productive and courteous” dialogue.

Rodríguez, who assumed the interim presidency following Maduro’s ouster and extradition to the United States to face drug-related charges, said the leaders discussed a bilateral agenda meant to benefit both countries. She described the exchange in similar terms, emphasizing respect and constructive engagement despite earlier tensions.

The call marks a dramatic shift in relations between Washington and Caracas after months of escalating tensions that included U.S. military strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels and sanctions targeting Venezuela’s oil sector. Trump praised Rodríguez as a “terrific person” and signalled a willingness to work closely with her government even as critics abroad protested Caracas.

In related developments, the U.S. has completed its first sale of Venezuelan oil valued at about $500 million, with further sales expected as part of efforts to stabilize and rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, according to U.S. officials.

Rodríguez’s position remains complex: while she seeks engagement with Washington, she also faces pressure from Maduro loyalists and must balance domestic legitimacy with cooperation, as the post-Maduro political landscape continues to evolve. 

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