In a notable development for US-Venezuela relations, President Donald Trump on Wednesday spoke by phone with interim Venezuelan leader Delcy Rodríguez, with both leaders describing the exchange as “very good” and “productive.”
Trump, in a post on his social media platform, said the two discussed a wide-ranging agenda that included oil, minerals, trade and national security, emphasising “tremendous progress” toward stabilising Venezuela and strengthening cooperation. He called Rodríguez a “terrific person” and expressed optimism about a future partnership that could help restore prosperity to the oil-rich nation.
Rodríguez, who assumed the acting presidency earlier this month after US forces captured Nicolás Maduro and transferred him to the United States on drug-related charges, described her first known contact with Trump as “productive and courteous” and said they discussed a bilateral work agenda for the benefit of both countries.
The call comes after a period of escalating tension between Washington and Caracas that included US military strikes targeting alleged drug trafficking networks and expanded sanctions on Venezuela’s energy sector. Despite past accusations by Rodríguez that the US “kidnapped” Maduro, the conciliatory tone of the telephone discussion underscores a potential diplomatic reset.
Meanwhile, in Caracas, Rodríguez has sought to frame the new political moment as one focused on national reconciliation and reform. She announced the release of hundreds of detainees since late 2025 and reiterated her intention to pursue stability and international engagement.
The phone call also reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, with the US interested in Venezuela’s vast but underutilised oil reserves and both sides exploring how to move forward after months of conflict and sanctions.
What this means:
The upbeat tone of this conversation — coming on the heels of military and diplomatic tensions — suggests Washington and Caracas may be entering a phase of cautious engagement, particularly around energy cooperation and security, while still navigating complex questions over Maduro’s ouster and Venezuela’s internal political future.
