Trump Insists on Unfettered Entry to Venezuela
"We need total access. We need access to the oil and to other things in their country that allow us to rebuild their country," Trump stated to journalists traveling with him on Air Force One.
The president disclosed he has not yet engaged in direct dialogue with Rodriguez but intends to initiate contact "at the right time." Rodriguez, who served as vice president under Nicolas Maduro, took over leadership responsibilities after Maduro was forcibly removed from Venezuela via U.S. military operations.
Trump asserted American control over the South American nation, declaring Washington is currently "in charge" of Venezuela and coordinating with newly installed officials.
"Don't ask me who's in charge, because I'll give you an answer, and it'll be very controversial," Trump stated. "It means we're in charge. We're in charge."
The president echoed warnings he issued earlier Sunday during a phone conversation with The Atlantic, cautioning that Rodriguez risks consequences exceeding those faced by her predecessor should she refuse to comply.
"She will face a situation probably worse than Maduro, because, you know, Maduro gave up immediately," Trump emphasized.
Maduro is scheduled for a New York court appearance Monday.
Following Maduro's apprehension Saturday morning, Trump revealed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio conducted telephone discussions with Rodriguez, with the White House establishing operational coordination with her administration.
"She (Rodriguez) is essentially willing to do what we believe is necessary to make Venezuela great again," Trump informed reporters, acknowledging she had been "picked by Maduro."
As Trump issued these statements, Rodriguez publicly demanded the immediate liberation of Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores, during a National Defense Council session aired on a state broadcaster, identifying Maduro as "the only president of Venezuela."
Rodriguez condemned what she characterized as savage violations of Venezuelan sovereignty during American strikes targeting Caracas and surrounding regions executed to apprehend Maduro.
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