Trump Says Venezuela VP Delcy Rodríguez Is ‘Willing to Work With US’. Who Is She?

In a recent statement that grabbed international attention, former U.S. President Donald Trump said that Venezuela’s Vice President, Delcy Eloína Rodríguez, is “willing to work with the United States.” The remark came amid shifting geopolitical currents in Latin America, prompting many observers to ask: Who is Delcy Rodríguez, and what does her potential cooperation with the U.S. really mean for Venezuela, regional politics, and global diplomacy?

To understand the significance of Trump’s comment, it is essential to explore Rodríguez’s background, her role in Venezuelan power structures, and the broader context of U.S.–Venezuela relations.

Who Is Delcy Rodríguez?

Delcy Eloína Rodríguez Gómez, born on May 18, 1969, in Caracas, Venezuela, is one of the most prominent political figures in the country. She has served in several high-level positions including:

Minister of Communication and Information (2009–2010)

President of the National Assembly (2016)

Vice President of Venezuela (since June 2018)

Rodríguez is known for her steadfast loyalty to the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) and her close alignment with the late President Hugo Chávez’s political philosophy, continued under Nicolás Maduro’s leadership.

Political Career and Influence

Delcy Rodríguez comes from a politically active family; her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, has also held senior government roles, including mayor of Caracas. Delcy’s rise in the Venezuelan political landscape reflects both her personal ambitions and her alignment with the Bolivarian Revolution’s core ideals.

As Vice President, Rodríguez is often seen as one of Maduro’s most trusted allies. Her portfolio has frequently included diplomatic engagements, crisis management, and shaping internal security policies. Known for her forceful rhetoric, she has defended the Venezuelan government in heated international forums, including the Organization of American States (OAS) and the United Nations (UN).

A Polarizing Figure

Rodríguez is a polarizing figure both domestically and internationally. Supporters view her as a competent and loyal leader who champions Venezuela’s sovereignty against external pressure. Critics, however, accuse her of being complicit in authoritarian practices and of defending policies that have contributed to Venezuela’s political and economic crises.

Under her leadership in various positions, Rodriguez has been involved in controversial actions, such as government crackdowns on opposition protests and controversies over election legitimacy. Western governments have sometimes targeted her with sanctions, citing human rights concerns and democratic backsliding.

Trump’s Comment: A Shift in Tone

When Trump said that Delcy Rodríguez is “willing to work with the United States,” it marked a noticeable shift in rhetoric from previous U.S. policy. Historically, U.S.–Venezuela relations have been deeply strained—with Washington imposing sanctions and refusing to recognize Maduro’s government, especially since the disputed 2018 presidential elections.

Trump’s recent statement suggests a potential opening for dialogue, perhaps tied to evolving strategic interests, regional stability concerns, or diplomatic recalibration following global geopolitical pressures. While the announcement may seem abrupt, it underscores how complex and fluid international relationships can become, especially when both sides detect potential mutual benefits.

What “Willing to Work With the U.S.” Could Mean

The phrase “willing to work with the United States” can encompass a range of possibilities:

1. Humanitarian Cooperation

Venezuela has long faced humanitarian challenges—shortages of food, medicines, and essential services. Cooperation with the U.S. could focus on humanitarian aid and infrastructure support.

2. Economic Negotiations

Sanctions have crippled parts of the Venezuelan economy. Dialogue may signal a willingness to explore sanctions relief measures, investment agreements, or economic partnerships.

3. Political Transition Talks

If genuine, willingness to work could involve political negotiations around elections, power transitions, or inclusive governance, though such discussions are typically protracted and complex.

4. Security and Diplomacy

Venezuela’s strategic position and resources make it a geopolitical pivot. Limited cooperation on issues such as regional security, migration, or counter-narcotics efforts might be on the table.

However, it’s important to stress that public statements do not always translate to policy shifts, and any future cooperation—or lack thereof—will depend on a web of domestic and international negotiations.

International Reaction

The global community has reacted cautiously. Western governments supportive of democratic norms have urged clarity from all sides, while allies of Venezuela, including Russia, China, and Cuba, have viewed the potential opening as either strategic leverage or a point for negotiation.

Regional organizations such as the Organization of American States (OAS) and the UN have called for peaceful dialogue and respect for democratic processes, underscoring that stability—rather than unilateral action—is key for Venezuela’s future.

Domestic Impact in Venezuela

Within Venezuela, reactions are similarly mixed. Many pro-government supporters welcomed the news as a sign of acknowledgment of Venezuelan sovereignty. Opposition leaders, however, are skeptical, asking whether talking to the U.S. will bring real democracy and relief or instead undermine internal pressure for genuine reforms.

For ordinary Venezuelans—many of whom struggle with inflation, unemployment, and shortages—the possibility of improved U.S.–Venezuela cooperation offers a flicker of hope, though tempered by years of unmet expectations.

What Happens Next?

As of now, it remains unclear what concrete actions will follow Trump’s announcement. Analysts predict:

Diplomatic delegations to resume talks

Back-channel negotiations on sanctions and humanitarian aid

Statements from both governments to define the terms of cooperation

Involvement of international mediators to build trust

The coming weeks and months will be critical to see whether this moment marks a genuine shift in relations or a rhetorical gesture with limited follow-through.

Conclusion

Delcy Rodríguez is a significant player in Venezuelan politics—one whose career reflects the complexities of governance, ideology, and international diplomacy in a nation rife with challenges. Trump’s statement that she is “willing to work with the United States” introduces a new chapter in a fraught relationship, raising both hopes and questions.

Whether this leads to meaningful cooperation, diplomatic breakthroughs, or strategic repositioning will depend on the actions that follow, not just the words spoken. For Venezuela, the U.S., and the global community, this moment is more than a headline—it is a test of how old adversaries can navigate a path toward practical engagement and mutual interest.