The United States is putting pressure on Venezuela's interim government to remove security personnel and official advisors associated with China, Cuba, Iran, and Russia. This demand comes from President Donald Trump's administration following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
According to a report by The New York Times, Secretary of State Marco Rubio presented these demands to Delcy Rodríguez during a classified meeting with senior congressional leaders at the Capitol on Monday.
Sources familiar with the situation reveal that Washington is aiming to expel spies and military personnel from the four nations allied with Chavismo. However, some diplomats may be allowed to remain in Venezuela.
U.S. officials view the presence of these advisors as a threat to regional security and to America's interests in South America. The incident where 32 Cuban military personnel were killed during Maduro's capture highlights these concerns.
In that operation, Delta Force commandos clashed with Cuban security forces protecting Maduro in a Caracas military complex.
Reports suggest that Maduro relied on Cuban forces for personal protection, distrustful of the Venezuelan military's loyalty.
In addition to the removal of foreign advisors, Rubio reportedly conveyed Washington's interest in reopening Venezuelan oil trade with the United States, a demand Trump has publicly advocated for.
Since assuming the role of interim president, Rodríguez has attempted to uphold Venezuela's sovereignty while adopting a conciliatory tone towards Washington.
Analysts highlight the precarious balance she must maintain: securing her political future without antagonizing the U.S., especially with the American navy positioned off Venezuela's coast and Trump's direct warnings.
U.S. Demands and Venezuelan Politics
Why is the U.S. demanding the removal of foreign military personnel from Venezuela?
The U.S. views the presence of advisors from China, Cuba, Iran, and Russia as a regional security threat and a challenge to American interests in South America.
How has Venezuela's interim government responded to U.S. demands?
Interim President Rodríguez has attempted to defend Venezuela's sovereignty while maintaining a conciliatory approach towards Washington to balance political pressures.