Big news from international politics! US President Donald Trump recently revealed he held a “long call” with Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez. This marks the first known direct contact between the two leaders since the dramatic ouster of Nicolas Maduro, signaling a potentially significant shift in US-Venezuelan relations.
Trump described Rodriguez as a “terrific person” and stated they discussed “many topics,” including critical areas like oil, minerals, trade, and national security. He confidently declared, “we are making tremendous progress.” This aligns with Trump’s earlier stance that he would be content with Rodriguez leading if the US gained access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves.
On her part, Rodriguez called the conversation “productive and courteous,” characterized by “mutual respect.” She highlighted discussions on a “bilateral work agenda” to benefit both nations and spoke of Venezuela entering a “new political era” with greater political diversity.
A major sign of this shift has been the release of political prisoners. Under pressure from Washington, Venezuela has freed dozens of individuals. While counts vary – Rodriguez claims 406 since December, NGOs suggest around 180, and AFP tallied 70 since Maduro’s fall – the releases are ongoing. Recently, 17 journalists and media workers, including prominent activist Roland Carreno, were freed. Even Americans held in Venezuela have reportedly been released.
However, the path forward isn’t entirely smooth. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who has largely been sidelined, is set to meet Trump to advocate for a stronger role for the opposition. This ongoing dialogue suggests a complex but evolving landscape for Venezuela’s future.
Source: https://thesun.my/news/world-news/trump-praises-venezuelas-new-leader-after-first-call/
