Trump holds first phone call with Venezuela’s interim president, signaling a new era

Thursday 15 January 2026 - 07:30

By: Sahili Aya

Trump holds first phone call with Venezuela’s interim president, signaling a new era

US President Donald Trump and Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez held their first publicly acknowledged phone conversation on Wednesday, an exchange both sides described as lengthy and constructive, marking what Rodríguez called the beginning of a “new era” in bilateral relations.

The call comes nearly two weeks after the capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, a turning point that has reshaped the country’s political landscape. Trump praised Rodríguez, a former vice president under Maduro, describing her as “a remarkable person” and saying that cooperation between Washington and Caracas was progressing smoothly.

According to Trump, the discussion covered a wide range of issues, including energy resources, minerals, trade and national security. He expressed optimism about the future of Venezuela, highlighting US involvement in efforts to stabilize and revive the country’s economy.

For her part, Rodríguez said the conversation was “long, productive and respectful,” adding that both governments discussed a bilateral agenda aimed at benefiting their respective populations, as well as unresolved issues in their relationship.

Speaking later at the presidential palace alongside senior officials, Rodríguez said Venezuela was entering a phase of political openness based on dialogue, despite ideological differences. She also announced the continuation of releases of political detainees, stating that hundreds had been freed in recent weeks, although independent organizations dispute the official figures and say releases remain limited.

The political shift has also been accompanied by changes in the media landscape, with access to the social media platform X gradually restored after more than a year of restrictions.

Observers view the renewed dialogue with Washington as a strategic move by Venezuela’s interim authorities, while human rights groups continue to call for broader and verifiable reforms.