Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, has said her government is not afraid of a diplomatic confrontation with the United States, even after the removal of her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, in a controversial U.S. military operation earlier this month.
Naijaonpoint reports that Rodriguez made the remarks on Thursday amid mounting international scrutiny and efforts to recalibrate relations with Washington.
Her comments came as she seeks to balance diplomatic engagement with the U.S. and loyalty to Maduro’s supporters, who retain influence in key security institutions.
Addressing lawmakers at the National Assembly, Rodriguez dismissed fears of a diplomatic clash with the United States, which launched a military strike that ousted Maduro earlier this month.
“We know they are very powerful. We know they are a lethal nuclear power… We are not afraid to confront them diplomatically, through political dialogue,” Rodriguez said.
She urged Washington to show respect for the dignity of Maduro, who is currently facing drug-trafficking charges in the United States.
Rodriguez, who served as vice president under Maduro, delivered what was widely seen as a state of the nation address in his absence, earning loud applause from lawmakers.
Her government’s approach to the United States has included direct communication with Donald Trump. They spoke by telephone in mid-January, with Trump describing her as a terrific person and saying they discussed many topics, including oil, minerals, trade and national security.
The exchange was described by Rodriguez as productive and courteous, characterised by mutual respect.
Despite her overtures to the United States, Rodriguez faces deep internal pressures from Maduro loyalists, especially influential figures within Venezuela’s security forces.
Her government has also reportedly proposed reforms to the hydrocarbon law to attract investment, signalling a willingness to cooperate on economic issues with foreign partners, including American firms.
In a pointed metaphor, Rodriguez said that if she were ever to visit Washington as interim president, she would do so standing, walking, not dragged, alluding to the forceful manner in which Maduro was removed from power.