Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó has praised former U.S. President Donald Trump as a "man of his word," highlighting that Trump fulfilled promises made during their meeting in the Oval Office back in 2020.
Guaidó shared his remarks on the social media platform X, along with an interview he gave to Univision. He stated, "President Trump is a man of his word; what he promised me in the Oval Office in 2020, he executed with resolve and determination, despite the pandemic and the lack of cooperation from his Defense Secretary at the time."
In another post, Guaidó emphasized that a potential democratic transition in Venezuela must include several key steps, particularly the complete release of political prisoners, which he described as a critical priority.
Guaidó's Rise and Decline
Guaidó declared himself interim president of Venezuela on January 23, 2019, following his refusal to recognize the 2018 presidential election results, in which Maduro claimed victory amid allegations of fraud. This move garnered the recognition of over 50 countries, including the United States.
However, the political landscape shifted in December 2022 when the National Assembly elected in 2015 voted to dissolve the interim government, effectively ending Guaidó's role as the leading institutional figure of the opposition.
This decision, supported by 72 lawmakers with 29 opposing it and eight abstaining, formally concluded his tenure as interim president on January 5, 2023.
U.S. Role in Venezuela's Crisis
Guaidó's recent comments have reignited discussions about the U.S. involvement in the Venezuelan crisis and the support from segments of the opposition for Trump's policy of maximum pressure against the Chavista regime.
Impact of U.S. Policy on Venezuela
Why did Juan Guaidó praise Donald Trump?
Juan Guaidó praised Donald Trump because he believes Trump followed through on commitments made during their 2020 meeting in the Oval Office, even amidst challenging circumstances.
What were the key steps mentioned by Guaidó for a democratic transition in Venezuela?
Guaidó highlighted the need for the complete release of political prisoners as a fundamental step for a democratic transition in Venezuela.
What happened to Guaidó's role as interim president?
Guaidó's role as interim president ended on January 5, 2023, following the decision by the 2015-elected National Assembly to dissolve the interim government in December 2022.