The Trump administration has given Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodríguez a set of pro-US action demands to avoid following former president Nicolás Maduro's fate, according to US media reports.
Politico reported the US has communicated three key requirements: cracking down on drug trafficking, expelling hostile forces including those from Iran, Cuba and Russia, and stopping oil sales to US global rivals.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US is setting conditions to ensure Venezuela no longer serves as a "safe haven" for opponents like Iran and Hezbollah and must stop sending drugs to the US. Sources said while the ultimate goal is for Rodríguez to facilitate free elections and hand over power, there is no fixed timeline and no plans for immediate elections.
Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president on January 5 after Maduro's capture. Though she initially condemned the US action and called Maduro the only legitimate president, her stance shifted within days. She recently said she is willing to work with the Trump administration on a "shared development" agenda.
Trump's team believes Rodríguez is under tight control and will act as Washington wishes. Trump earlier warned of a "second strike" if Venezuela does not comply.
Incentives include possibly lifting some sanctions and allowing access to frozen assets in Qatar if Rodríguez cooperates. The White House declined to comment, but the State Department reiterated expectations she will be more willing to meet US demands than Maduro.
Within the US government, opinions differ on Rodríguez's future. Some aides, including special envoy Richard Grenell, prefer she stays indefinitely to maintain regional stability and secure US interests.
