Trump issues new Venezuela attack threat as he warns 'do what's right'

Delcy Rodriguez has assumed the role of interim leader of Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday.

In the wake of Maduro’s detention, former US President Donald Trump warned that Rodriguez could face a “very big price” if she did not cooperate with the United States. On Saturday, hours after the US military reportedly conducted strikes in Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Trump described Rodriguez as “essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again.”

However, Rodriguez’s initial response suggests she is not inclined to allow the US to dictate Venezuela’s future. During a National Defense Council session, she called for the “immediate release” of Maduro and his wife, describing the US operation as a violation of international law and labeling it an “atrocity.” Rodriguez emphasized: “There is only one president in Venezuela, and his name is Nicolás Maduro.”

Following her statement, Trump criticized the acting leader, suggesting that if she does not comply with US expectations, the consequences could be “probably bigger than Maduro’s.” He also indicated that the US military remains prepared to conduct further operations if deemed necessary.

Speaking to The Atlantic, Trump also suggested the US could consider other strategic territories, renewing his focus on Greenland a territory of Denmark citing its geopolitical significance amid Russian and Chinese naval activity.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Washington will evaluate Venezuela’s next steps based on actions rather than statements, noting that declarations in the media shortly after a regime change may not reflect the true intentions of the country’s leadership.

Following their capture, Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were transferred to New York and are expected to appear in a Manhattan federal court. Maduro faces four charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess such weapons. Maduro and his administration have consistently denied US allegations in recent weeks.