U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Venezuela’s emerging leadership to avoid further instability following the removal of President Nicolás Maduro, signaling that Washington is closely monitoring developments during the country’s uncertain political transition.
In remarks delivered after confirmation that Venezuela’s military had acknowledged Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as acting leader, Trump said the United States expects calm, protection of civilians, and a clear path toward political normalization. He cautioned that any actions that deepen unrest or undermine public order would draw international scrutiny.
“This is a moment that requires responsibility,” Trump said. “The choices made now will determine whether Venezuela moves toward stability or further crisis.”
Message Framed Around Stability
U.S. officials emphasized that Trump’s comments were intended as a warning against violence and repression rather than an endorsement of any particular political figure. According to the White House, Washington’s immediate priority is preventing a security vacuum that could worsen humanitarian conditions or trigger further regional displacement.
Trump did not formally recognize Rodríguez’s authority, nor did he outline a specific policy toward the interim leadership. Instead, administration officials said U.S. engagement would depend on developments on the ground, including respect for basic rights and cooperation with international efforts aimed at restoring order.
Background to the Warning
Maduro’s removal has created a volatile political environment in Venezuela, with competing claims of legitimacy and widespread uncertainty about governance. The military’s decision to back Rodríguez has been presented by Venezuelan authorities as a constitutional measure to preserve continuity, though the move has not been universally accepted either domestically or abroad.
Against this backdrop, Trump’s warning reflects concerns that the transition could be exploited by hardline elements or armed groups seeking to assert control during the power shift.
International Reactions
Several governments in the region have urged restraint from all parties, calling for dialogue and peaceful management of the transition. Analysts say Trump’s remarks are consistent with Washington’s longstanding position that Venezuela’s crisis should not spiral into further violence or instability.
Security experts also note that early, direct messaging is often used to deter escalation during periods of political uncertainty.
Pressure on Interim Authorities
For Rodríguez and the institutions backing her, the warning adds to growing international pressure to demonstrate control without resorting to force. Observers say the interim leadership’s credibility will depend less on declarations and more on its ability to maintain security, keep essential services running, and outline a realistic political roadmap.
Inside Venezuela, public reaction remains mixed. While some citizens have expressed cautious hope that the power shift could lead to change, others remain skeptical that new leadership figures will break from past practices.
A Critical Moment
Trump concluded his remarks by stressing that the transition period would be closely watched. “This is not a time for delay or disorder,” he said.
As Venezuela navigates one of the most sensitive moments in its modern history, the warning from Washington underscores the narrow margin for error facing those now in charge—and the high stakes for a country seeking stability after years of crisis.
