Delcy Rodríguez

President Donald Trump announced on July 28, 2026, that the United States has collected over $13 billion from the sale of Venezuelan crude oil since the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro in a military raid on January 3. The US seized control of Venezuela's oil exports after the operation. Trump stated the money is used to run Venezuela, claiming the war has been 'paid for many times over.' Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Congress the oil sales are audited by KPMG, with funds held in a Citibank account. The administration initially deposited $500 million in a Qatar account before switching to a US Treasury account. State Department official Michael Kozak reported that around $3 billion had been disbursed for Venezuelan government worker salaries, oil industry supplies, and other approved uses. Democrats have pressed for more transparency on the program's oversight and spending.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 12:39 PM UTC

Venezuela's interim government and opposition are set to begin formal negotiations on August 1, 2026, aimed at strengthening democratic institutions following the ouster of Nicolás Maduro in January. The talks, facilitated by the US, come after devastating June earthquakes that killed over 5,000 people and caused an estimated $37 billion in damage, underscoring the need for political stability to attract reconstruction investment. Opposition leader Dinorah Figuera, who returned to Venezuela with US assistance, will lead the opposition delegation, while Jorge Rodríguez represents the interim government. The agenda includes restoring democratic legitimacy, appointing a new electoral authority and supreme court, and guaranteeing civil rights. The Trump administration views the talks as part of its three-stage plan for Venezuela—stabilization, recovery, and transition—and sees an opportunity to lock in a strategic victory.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 01:43 PM UTC

The Financial Times reports that the Trump administration has collected over $13 billion from Venezuelan oil sales in 2026 after seizing control of exports and suspending sanctions following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. However, Washington has given conflicting accounts of where the money is going, ranging from a 'custodial' role to Trump stating the US is 'making a lot of money.' Economists note a muted recovery in Venezuela, suggesting not all funds have been returned. Bipartisan US lawmakers are demanding transparency, especially after devastating earthquakes on June 24 caused an estimated $37 billion in damage. A Venezuelan government transparency website shows only one entry: a $300 million transfer in March.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 04:00 AM UTC

The Venezuelan government has expressed deep concern over escalating violence in Colombia’s Catatumbo border region following a Colombian military bombing operation that reportedly killed seven National Liberation Army (ELN) combatants. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil stated that Caracas was surprised by the action, rejecting any armed measures that jeopardize border stability. Conversely, Colombian President Gustavo Petro asserted that the strike was conducted within the framework of security agreements previously established with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez. Petro emphasized that the ELN is not part of any peace process due to its involvement in illicit economies. The ELN subsequently denied suffering casualties, claiming the attack failed. This incident highlights growing tensions and fragmentation among armed groups along the 2,200-kilometer border, despite recent pledges by both nations to combat organized crime through joint military coordination and intelligence sharing. The conflict continues to intensify in 2026, impacting civilian populations and challenging ongoing peace initiatives.

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Erebor Bank, a US digital bank backed by Peter Thiel and recently granted a national charter, has proposed a plan to restore Venezuela’s access to the US financial system. The proposal involves establishing correspondent banking lines with Venezuelan institutions and creating US sub-accounts for their clients, facilitating cross-border dollar transactions. This initiative follows the US Treasury's issuance of General License 57 in April 2026, which authorized financial transactions with key Venezuelan state banks. The move occurs within a shifted political landscape where former President Nicolas Maduro was captured in a US military operation in January 2026, leading to Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez assuming the presidency. While international bodies like the IMF and World Bank have resumed engagement with Caracas, Venezuela continues to face severe economic challenges, including 650% year-on-year inflation. Erebor’s entry into this space highlights a trend of tech-driven financial disruptors filling gaps left by traditional banks wary of compliance risks, aligning with the current US administration's sanctions relief efforts.

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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sparked widespread attention on social media after being photographed wearing a gray Nike Tech Fleece tracksuit during a flight to China aboard Air Force One. The outfit drew immediate comparisons to the identical attire worn by former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro when he was captured by US forces in Caracas earlier in 2026. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung amplified the comparison by posting the image with a caption referencing Venezuela. In response, Rubio dismissed suggestions of intentional symbolism, stating that the clothing choice was purely for comfort and denying any knowledge of the photo being taken. He humorously suggested that Maduro had copied his style. The incident occurs against the backdrop of significant geopolitical shifts, including Maduro's arrest on drug trafficking charges and the subsequent establishment of an interim government in Venezuela led by Delcy Rodríguez, which has begun normalizing relations with the United States under the Trump administration.

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Venezuelan oil production has surpassed 1 million barrels per day (bpd) for the first time in over seven years, reaching 1.031 million bpd in April according to OPEC secondary sources. This recovery occurs under a new geopolitical framework following hypothetical US military intervention in January 2026, which resulted in US Treasury control over Venezuelan energy revenues. The Trump administration has issued licenses allowing Western corporations, including BP, Chevron, Eni, Repsol, and Shell, to re-enter the sector amid pro-business legislative reforms that reduced royalties and taxes. While state-owned PDVSA reports higher figures, discrepancies exist regarding the inclusion of natural gas liquids. Oil exports have risen to 1.23 million bpd, with increased shipments to US refineries and Indian partner Reliance, while cargoes destined for China and Cuba were intercepted by US naval forces. Major firms like ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips are evaluating potential returns, seeking to resolve outstanding arbitration awards. The article highlights a significant shift in Venezuela's energy landscape, characterized by renewed Western corporate presence and strict US oversight of financial proceeds.

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Four months after US forces captured Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, interim President Delcy Rodríguez has initiated a strategic transformation of Venezuela. Adopting a model described as 'China-style reform without politics,' the administration prioritizes economic liberalization while maintaining strict political control through the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV). Key actions include replacing thirteen ministers, dissolving state intelligence structures, and reopening hydrocarbon and mining sectors to private investment under US Treasury supervision. While sanctions against Rodríguez were lifted and oil revenues are now routed through Washington-controlled accounts, the PSUV retains dominance over military, judicial, and legislative institutions. Opposition leader María Corina Machado remains marginalized from decision-making processes, having refused to endorse the current reforms. This transition represents a managed shift toward a commodity-extraction economy backed by international capital, rather than a democratic opening. The US requires pre-approval for any agreements with China, Russia, or Iran, ensuring geopolitical alignment. The situation presents a complex scenario where authoritarian continuity facilitates investor predictability, raising questions among global powers about the long-term implications of this engineered stability.

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The Venezuelan acting government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, has formally announced the initiation of a comprehensive debt restructuring process to address approximately $170 billion in foreign liabilities. This significant financial move aims to renegotiate debts owed by the state and the national oil company, PDVSA, seeking a substantial reduction to prioritize domestic welfare over unsustainable obligations. The announcement follows a US Treasury license issued in May 2026, which permits financial advisory services for the restructuring, although it restricts direct debt settlement. Venezuela has engaged Centerview Partners as a financial advisor and plans to present a macroeconomic framework to international creditors in June. This event occurs amidst a shifting political landscape, characterized by recent US military actions against former President Nicolás Maduro and the subsequent recognition of Rodríguez’s administration by Washington. While market analysts warn of potential holdout creditors, investors have responded positively, with Venezuelan bonds rising on expectations of a resolution. The restructuring is projected to be one of the largest in history, potentially surpassing previous cases in Russia and Argentina, marking a critical step in Venezuela's attempt to restore credibility in global financial markets.

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Venezuela’s transitional government, led by interim president Delcy Rodríguez, officially initiated a comprehensive restructuring process for its external sovereign debt and state oil company PDVSA obligations on May 13, 2026. This marks the first such effort since the country defaulted in late 2017. Total external liabilities are estimated between $150 billion and $170 billion, including roughly $60 billion in defaulted bonds, accumulated interest, bilateral loans primarily from China and Russia, and pending arbitration awards. With a 2025 nominal GDP of approximately $82.8 billion, Venezuela’s debt-to-GDP ratio stands at 180-200%, the highest in Latin America. The move follows a geopolitical thaw with the United States after Nicolás Maduro’s capture in January 2026, leading to resumed IMF and World Bank relations and US Treasury authorization for financial advisory services. Venezuela has retained Centerview Partners as its financial advisor. Despite PDVSA bonds rallying on the news, analysts warn of significant challenges due to fragmented creditors, frozen assets like Citgo, and complex legal hurdles. The restructuring is viewed as a critical test of international acceptance of the current Caracas-led administration.

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Following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, the global Venezuelan diaspora initially reacted with euphoria, with many expressing immediate intentions to return home. However, months later, the majority of the approximately 8 million Venezuelans living abroad remain in their host countries. According to the United Nations and interviews with migrants in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, the hesitation stems from the unresolved underlying issues that forced their exodus, including a ruined economy and persistent repressive governance under the new leadership of Delcy Rodríguez. While the initial news sparked emotional celebrations and hopes for family reunification, the reality of daily survival and lack of structural change has dampened enthusiasm for repatriation. The article highlights personal stories of migrants who, despite the regime change, feel unsafe or economically unable to return. This situation underscores the complexity of the humanitarian crisis, where political shifts do not immediately translate into stability or improved living conditions for refugees scattered across Latin America and beyond.

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Nicolás Maduro Guerra, the son of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, claims that his father is currently imprisoned in the United States and forced to share a cell with 18 other prisoners. In an interview with Spiegel, Maduro Guerra revealed that US rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine was briefly housed in the same New York facility. The former president and his wife were arrested by US troops in Caracas in January 2026 and transported to New York to face charges including drug terrorism. Maduro denies allegations of facilitating cocaine smuggling, describing the proceedings as a politically motivated process. His son emphasized that the family has no involvement in drug trafficking or terrorism. Additionally, Maduro Guerra stated that the US military operation in Caracas was unexpected, admitting that the Venezuelan government had overestimated its defensive capabilities. He rejected assertions that the US has taken control of Venezuela, asserting that recent political changes, such as amnesty laws and oil sector openings, are internal initiatives led by the current government under Delcy Rodríguez, despite necessary concessions within the socialist state model.

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Venezuela has officially announced the commencement of a comprehensive process to restructure its substantial government debt, which is estimated to reach $170 billion. This strategic move aims to capitalize on improving diplomatic relations with the United States, facilitated by Acting President Delcy Rodríguez. The primary objectives are to normalize ties with international creditors and regain access to global financial markets, from which the nation has been largely isolated. Economists characterize this upcoming restructuring as one of the most significant and complex sovereign debt renegotiation efforts in recent history due to the sheer volume of debt and the intricate political-economic landscape. The initiative marks a pivotal step in Venezuela's attempt to reintegrate into the global economy, signaling a potential shift in its financial diplomacy and domestic economic management strategies amidst ongoing geopolitical adjustments.

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Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported serious shortcomings in the implementation of Venezuela’s amnesty law, describing the process as unfair and opaque. The NGO argues that the legislation fails to ensure the unconditional release of individuals arbitrarily detained for political reasons. HRW highlights restrictive eligibility criteria, noting that the law only covers specific events in thirteen years since 1999, excluding many others. Furthermore, vague provisions allow judges to deny amnesty for acts protected under international human rights law. Procedural flaws include lack of proper notification of charges, restricted access to case files, and insufficient legal justification for denying amnesty. While Acting President Delcy Rodríguez claimed over 9,000 people received amnesty, she also acknowledged corruption among judges handling these cases. Local organization Foro Penal described the law as a mechanism to slow down releases rather than facilitate them. HRW urges Venezuelan authorities to apply the law transparently and explore additional legal avenues to close criminal cases against those subjected to arbitrary proceedings, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to international human rights standards.

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Former US President Donald Trump has threatened to make Venezuela the 51st state of the United States, posting an image of a map colored with the American flag on Truth Social. This statement follows his earlier remarks on Fox News about seriously considering the annexation of the oil-rich nation. Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, firmly rejected the proposal, emphasizing national sovereignty and independence while attending proceedings at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. The court is currently addressing a border dispute between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo region, where significant oil reserves were discovered by Exxon Mobil. Analysts suggest Trump's aggressive rhetoric aims to pressure Venezuela into dropping its territorial claims against Guyana, thereby protecting US corporate interests. This incident occurs within a broader context of heightened US-Venezuela tensions, including the recent abduction of former leader Nicolás Maduro and subsequent agreements forcing Venezuela to redirect oil exports from China and Cuba to Western markets. The situation highlights the intersection of geopolitical maneuvering, resource control, and nationalist rhetoric in South America.

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Following the overthrow of Nicolás Maduro in a US-backed military operation, the Trump administration is aggressively pursuing access to Venezuelan oil reserves. Jarrod Agen, head of the National Energy Dominance Council, recently visited Caracas to facilitate agreements between US energy firms and the state oil company PDVSA. While President Trump sparked controversy by suggesting Venezuela could become the 51st US state, interim President Delcy Rodríguez firmly rejected these insinuations, asserting Venezuela’s sovereignty and denying colonial status. Despite Rodríguez’s government retaining many officials from the Maduro era, the US has eased sanctions to allow private sector investment, prioritizing economic stability and oil production over immediate democratic transitions. This shift has raised concerns among investors and the Venezuelan diaspora that democratic reforms are being sidelined for resource extraction. US companies like Crossover Energy have already signed initial agreements, with the administration urging rapid progress to replace Gulf oil supplies. The situation highlights a complex diplomatic landscape where energy interests drive US policy, potentially compromising long-term democratic goals in favor of immediate economic gains and strategic energy independence.

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US President Donald Trump sparked diplomatic controversy by posting a graphic on Truth Social depicting Venezuela as the 51st US state. The provocative post, published while Trump traveled to China for a summit, follows his recent comments about seriously considering statehood for the South American nation. This comes after US forces captured former leader Nicolás Maduro in January. Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, firmly rejected the suggestion, stating that Venezuelans value their independence and have never contemplated becoming a US state. Rodríguez made these remarks at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, where she attended hearings regarding a territorial dispute with Guyana. Despite the rhetorical tension, relations between the two countries have thawed under Rodríguez’s leadership. Her administration has implemented economic reforms, reopening oil and mining sectors to US companies like Chevron, and passed an amnesty law releasing political prisoners. While Trump has praised Rodríguez, the Venezuelan opposition continues to demand elections, which Rodríguez has not scheduled definitively. The incident highlights the complex interplay of geopolitical posturing and deepening economic ties between Washington and Caracas following the regime change earlier in the year.

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In a significant geopolitical shift, US President Donald Trump announced on May 11, 2026, that he is seriously considering making Venezuela the 51st state of the United States. This proposal follows the capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro in January 2026 during Operation Absolute Resolve. Trump cites Venezuela's vast oil reserves, estimated at $40 trillion, and strategic economic interests as primary motivations for the annexation. However, Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, firmly rejected the idea from The Hague, asserting Venezuela’s sovereignty and independence. The article outlines the complex legal pathway required for such a union, referencing the New States Clause of the US Constitution and historical precedents like the 1845 annexation of Texas. Potential steps include a Cession Treaty or Joint Annexation Resolution, followed by a transition period as an organized territory, a democratic referendum among Venezuelan citizens, and final approval via an Admission Law by the US Congress. The situation highlights intense geopolitical tensions and the intricate constitutional challenges involved in integrating a sovereign nation into the US federal system.

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On May 12, 2026, Venezuela's National Assembly unanimously approved a reform increasing the number of Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) magistrates from 20 to 32. The legislation, sent to Acting President Delcy Rodríguez for promulgation, expands the Constitutional Chamber from five to seven members and increases the other five chambers from three to five members each. This move mirrors a 2004 restructuring by Hugo Chávez, reversing a 2022 reduction back to 20 seats. Officials justify the change as a measure to address judicial backlogs and facilitate national agreement, with a special commission currently reviewing 254 candidates for the new positions. However, critics view it as a consolidation of power by the Rodríguez family leadership during a sensitive transition period. The vote occurred shortly after former US President Donald Trump pledged to free political prisoners in Venezuela, highlighting heightened external pressure. The reform places key judicial oversight bodies under the direct authority of the TSJ’s full bench, significantly altering the country's judicial architecture under the current administration led by Jorge Rodríguez and Delcy Rodríguez.

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On May 13, 2026, Latin America faced significant political and economic turbulence. In Bolivia, the Central Obrera Boliviana strike entered its second week, resulting in 67 simultaneous road blockades nationwide. President Rodrigo Paz Pereira called for dialogue as annual inflation hit 14 percent, the worst in four decades, prompting emergency food airlifts to La Paz. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s National Assembly unanimously voted to expand the Supreme Tribunal of Justice from 20 to 32 magistrates, marking a major institutional shift under acting president Delcy Rodríguez. In Colombia, tensions escalated between President Gustavo Petro and the Council of State after the latter suspended a pension decree, leading Petro to declare an 'institutional blockade.' In Brazil, President Lula launched an 11 billion BRL program against organized crime and eliminated import taxes on purchases under $50, while Argentina awaited key inflation data. These events highlight deepening regional fractures, with street protests in the Andes, institutional resets in Caracas, and macroeconomic adjustments in Brazil defining the current landscape.

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Former US President Donald Trump sparked diplomatic controversy by posting an image on Truth Social depicting a map of Venezuela overlaid with the American flag and labeled 'State 51.' This action followed earlier remarks where he suggested seriously considering the incorporation of Venezuela into the United States. The post was amplified by the official White House account on X, signaling institutional backing rather than a mere joke. In response, Delcy Rodríguez, identified in the report as Venezuela's interim president, firmly rejected the notion from The Hague. She emphasized that annexation is not planned and highlighted Venezuelans' commitment to their independence process. Despite the provocative nature of Trump's statement, Rodríguez maintained a measured diplomatic tone, reiterating Caracas's agenda for cooperation with Washington and underscoring Venezuela's strategic value due to its vast oil and natural gas reserves. The incident occurs against a backdrop of political transition in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, with Trump advocating for statehood while both the Venezuelan government and opposition leaders, including María Corina Machado, assert the nation's sovereignty. The map used notably excluded the disputed Essequibo territory.

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US President Donald Trump has sparked international controversy by suggesting the annexation of Venezuela as the 51st federal state of the United States. In a recent social media post, Trump published a map depicting Venezuela colored with the US flag and labeled it as the "51st Federal State." This proposal follows earlier remarks made to Fox News, where Trump indicated he was seriously considering annexation due to Venezuela's substantial oil reserves. The move has been firmly rejected by Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez. Speaking from The Hague, Rodríguez stated that her country would never agree to become a US federal state, emphasizing national sovereignty. The situation remains tense as diplomatic reactions continue to unfold. This development highlights escalating geopolitical tensions between Washington and Caracas, driven largely by economic interests in energy resources. The article notes that updates will follow as the situation develops, underscoring the volatility of current US-Latin American relations under the Trump administration's foreign policy approach.

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US President Donald Trump has ignited diplomatic controversy by suggesting that Venezuela should become the 51st state of the United States. According to reports from Fox News, Trump discussed this consideration during a phone call on Monday, framing it as a potential territorial expansion effort. To underscore his statement, Trump posted an image on his Truth Social platform featuring a map of Venezuela designed with the pattern of the US flag, accompanied by the caption "51st state." The provocative move has drawn immediate rejection from Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez. Despite the tension, the article notes that Trump previously praised Rodríguez as "fantastic," highlighting the complex and fluctuating nature of their political interaction. This development marks a significant escalation in rhetorical tensions between Washington and Caracas, raising questions about US foreign policy intentions in South America. The incident underscores the ongoing geopolitical friction in the region, with Trump's unconventional diplomatic approach continuing to challenge traditional international norms and provoke strong reactions from foreign leaders.

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Human Rights Watch (HRW) has criticized Venezuela’s new amnesty law, approved in February 2026, for significant shortcomings that exclude many arbitrarily detained individuals. Although the law aims to promote social peace and democratic coexistence following years of political repression under former President Nicolás Maduro, HRW reports that its application is opaque and unfair. While authorities claim over 8,600 people have benefited, at least 457 political prisoners remain incarcerated, including prominent opposition leaders, journalists, and human rights defenders. The law restricts eligibility to specific contexts and allows judges, who lack independence from the executive branch, to deny requests based on vague provisions. HRW findings indicate that courts have refused new petitions, denied access to case files, and failed to provide legal explanations for rejections. Notable figures such as Perkins Rocha and Javier Tarazona have been excluded. HRW urges Venezuelan authorities to ensure unconditional release for all arbitrarily detained persons and to apply the law transparently, arguing that current procedures undermine the legislation's limited promise of justice and reconciliation.

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US President Donald Trump has sparked international controversy by suggesting Venezuela should become the 51st state of the United States. In a phone interview with Fox News and a subsequent post on his Truth Social platform, Trump shared a provocative map depicting Venezuela with the US flag design and the label '51st state.' This statement follows the US military's January invasion of Venezuela, which resulted in the arrest of former head of state Nicolás Maduro for alleged drug trafficking. Currently, Delcy Rodríguez serves as Venezuela's interim president and has firmly rejected Trump's annexation remarks, asserting that Venezuela is not a colony and will protect its sovereignty. Despite political friction, diplomatic relations resumed in March, and bilateral trade increased by nearly 23 percent in the first quarter of 2026. This incident mirrors Trump's previous controversial suggestions regarding the annexation of Canada and Greenland, highlighting a pattern of aggressive territorial rhetoric from the US administration.

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US President Donald Trump has ignited significant diplomatic controversy by posting an image on Truth Social depicting Venezuela’s map overlaid with the American flag and the caption 'State 51.' This provocative act follows reports that Trump is seriously considering annexing Venezuela, claiming Venezuelans support him. The post has intensified speculation about US intentions toward its southern neighbor, despite the absence of any formal legal procedures for such a move. Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez firmly rejected the notion, emphasizing Venezuela’s sovereignty and independence. The incident occurs against a complex geopolitical backdrop, including the recent capture of former President Nicolás Maduro by US forces in January 2026 and increased international attention on Venezuela’s oil and mining sectors. Analysts suggest the post serves as a political warning rather than a literal policy announcement, yet it has triggered widespread reactions across Latin America and global social media platforms. The event highlights escalating tensions and unconventional diplomatic signaling from the Trump administration regarding regional dominance and resource control in South America.

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US President Donald Trump has sparked international controversy by posting a map on his Truth Social platform depicting Venezuela with the design of the US flag and labeling it the '51st state.' This provocative act follows earlier remarks to Fox News where he stated he was seriously considering annexing the South American nation. Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, firmly rejected these insinuations, asserting that Venezuela is not a colony and emphasizing the government's commitment to protecting national sovereignty and independence. She highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts for cooperation instead. This incident aligns with a pattern of expansionist rhetoric from Trump, who has previously suggested making Canada the 51st state and claimed ownership of Greenland. Tensions are already high following a US military invasion of Venezuela earlier in 2026, which resulted in the capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro. Maduro is currently facing trial in New York for alleged drug trafficking involvement. The latest post serves as another significant diplomatic provocation, reinforcing fears regarding US territorial ambitions under Trump's administration and straining relations with Latin American neighbors and European allies alike.

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The Wall Street Journal editorial board has sharply criticized President Donald Trump's recent suggestion that the United States should consider making Venezuela its 51st state. The board mocked the idea, contrasting it with Trump's previous interests in acquiring Greenland and Canada, and highlighted the democratic contradictions of annexing a dictatorship. The article notes that while Trump claims Venezuela loves him, he appears to support the current regime led by Delcy Rodríguez, a disciple of former strongman Nicolas Maduro, primarily because oil production has resumed. This stance ignores the severe risks faced by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who remains under threat of arrest and assassination. The WSJ argues that blessing this autocratic leadership will not endear Trump to the Venezuelan people. Additionally, the report contextualizes this diplomatic controversy within the broader scope of Trump's ongoing military conflict in Iran, which lacks a clear exit strategy and has disrupted global oil trade by closing the Strait of Hormuz.

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US President Donald Trump has ignited a diplomatic controversy by posting a map of Venezuela colored with the US flag and labeled "51st state" on his Truth Social platform. This action signals renewed interest in annexing the South American nation, drawing sharp criticism from Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez, who firmly rejected the notion. The incident follows significant geopolitical shifts, including the reported capture of former President Nicolás Maduro by US military forces in January and the subsequent resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries in March. Trump has previously praised Rodríguez, who served as vice president under Maduro. Amidst these political tensions, economic ties have strengthened; data from the US-Venezuela Chamber of Commerce indicates that bilateral trade surged by nearly 23 percent in the first quarter of this year. Trade volume reached approximately $3.3 billion from January to March, a notable increase from $2.7 billion during the same period last year. The article highlights the intersection of aggressive political rhetoric and growing economic interdependence between the United States and Venezuela.

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US President Donald Trump has ignited diplomatic controversy by posting a map of Venezuela colored with the US flag and labeled '51st state' on his platform, Truth Social. This action underscores his renewed interest in annexing the South American nation. The post follows earlier remarks to Fox News where Trump considered making Venezuela a new federal state, a notion firmly rejected by Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, who stated her country would never accept such a status. The situation is framed against a backdrop of significant geopolitical shifts, including the reported capture of former President Nicolás Maduro by US military forces in January and the subsequent resumption of diplomatic relations in March. Trump has praised Rodríguez, formerly Maduro's vice president, as 'fantastic.' Concurrently, economic ties are strengthening, with US-Venezuelan trade volume rising nearly 23 percent in the first quarter to approximately $3.3 billion. This development highlights the complex interplay between political maneuvering, territorial ambitions, and growing commercial interactions between the two nations amidst a transformed leadership landscape in Caracas.

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