Delcy Rodríguez asks her "partner and friend" Donald Trump to end the blockade against Venezuela
Delcy Rodríguez, interim president of Venezuela, called on President Donald Trump to lift sanctions against Venezuela, referring to him as a friend and partner in a new agenda of cooperation.
Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president of Venezuela, made an appeal to U.S. President Donald Trump, whom she referred to as a "partner and friend," requesting the cessation of the sanctions imposed on Venezuela. This request was made during an event with Chavista youth at the Teatro Teresa Carreño, where she emphasized the impact of the sanctions on Venezuelan youth. Rodríguez stated that she welcomed Trump's recent characterization of Venezuela as a "new friend and partner" of the United States, arguing that her country has never been an enemy of the U.S. and has maintained a geopolitical stance based on friendship and cooperation. The remarks come at a time when Venezuela is experiencing significant socio-economic challenges, exacerbated by prolonged sanctions. Rodríguez highlighted the detrimental effects of the U.S. blockade, claiming it directly affects the Venezuelan youth and their prospects for the future. This plea reflects a strategic attempt by the Venezuelan government to reshape its narrative in international relations, particularly with the United States, hoping to shift from adversarial to cooperative. The implications of Rodríguez's request could be significant for U.S.-Venezuela relations. If the U.S. response favors lifting or easing sanctions, it could mark a turning point in diplomatic ties, potentially enabling Venezuela to receive international support and aid. However, it also raises questions about the underlying motivations of both leaders in advancing a new agenda, as previous relations have been strained for years due to political and human rights issues in Venezuela.