Trump Changes Tune On Venezuela
President Donald Trump said Tuesday that his administration is exploring ways to involve Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado in the country’s political future, though he emphasized that no formal role has been finalized.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump confirmed ongoing discussions with Machado and said he is open to the idea of her participation in Venezuela’s next phase of leadership.
“We’re talking with her, and there may be a way for her to be involved,” Trump said. “That’s something I would very much like to see.”
The comments reflect a shift in the president’s public posture toward Machado. Earlier this month, Trump had raised questions about her national support and political viability following the U.S.-led operation that resulted in the capture of longtime Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Despite those concerns, Machado’s political alliance has maintained that it won a commanding share of the vote in Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election.
Trump also highlighted what he described as improved cooperation between Washington and Caracas, suggesting recent diplomatic engagement has produced unexpected progress.
“At one point, I felt very strongly against Venezuela,” Trump said. “Now I’m seeing a different picture. They’ve been working with us very well, and it’s been encouraging.”
According to the president, coordination with Venezuela’s interim leadership has helped stabilize relations after years of economic collapse, political unrest, and socialist mismanagement. Trump indicated that continued cooperation could open the door to broader reforms and a more secure future for the Venezuelan people.
