U.S. intelligence agencies are expressing growing reservations about whether interim President Delsy Rodriguez, who took over after the ouster, intends to fully align with the U.S. strategy to weaken the influence of countries such as the U.S. and the U.S. in the country.
They doubt whether Rodriguez is in line with the US “vision” for the country
According to recent reports, it remains unclear whether Rodriguez will break with Venezuela’s traditional international allies, as the Trump administration wants. Although Washington has made it clear that it expects the removal of diplomats and advisers from these three countries, so far the new president has not publicly announced any relevant decision. In fact, her swearing-in ceremony was attended by representatives of Iran, China and Russia, which increased doubts about the direction she will take.
CIA analysts note that it is not clear whether Rodriguez fully shares Washington’s “vision” for Venezuela’s future. The agency’s chief, John Ratcliffe, visited Caracas on January 15 and held talks with the interim president, but it is not clear whether that meeting affected the assessment of the US agencies.
The US government seeks to limit the presence and influence of its geopolitical adversaries in the Western Hemisphere, viewing Venezuela as a hub for its vast oil reserves. An eventual disengagement of the country from Iran, China and Russia could pave the way for the return of US investment in the energy sector. Conversely, Washington’s inability to influence Rodriguez’s choices may undermine the “guidance from a distance” strategy and bring back the possibility of more direct involvement.
They put Machado back in the frame as an awe-inspiring opponent
Under these circumstances, American officials continue to put pressure on the interim president, while at the same time considering alternative scenarios, including strengthening the role of the opposition.
In this context, the same reports refer to Maria Korina Machado, a leading figure in the opposition, pointing out that, despite her popularity, she does not have strong bases in the armed forces or in the strategically important oil sector, which, according to analysts, hinders her ability to govern effectively.
Machado’s supporters and independent observers insist she won the 2024 presidential election by a wide margin, although officials declared Maduro the winner. Despite these contradictions, Machado remains particularly popular within the country.
Donald Trump recently said he would like Machado to have a role in Venezuela’s leadership, but did not specify what form that role might take. A person with knowledge of Washington’s contacts with Machado said she is highly regarded in the White House and is considered a “long-term choice” to lead the country. Another source noted that, at least at this stage, she could be given an advisory role, but no final decision has been made.
