Rubio speaks to Venezuelan minister about reforms that lay groundwork for elections
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with his Venezuelan counterpart on Monday about reforms that lay the groundwork for future free and fair elections in the South American country, the State Department said in a statement. Rubio met Venezuelan Foreign Minister Oliver Blanco at the State Department on Monday. “The two discussed progress in the Venezuelan-led reconciliation talks,…
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Oliver Blanco on Monday to discuss reforms aimed at paving the way for future free and fair elections in Venezuela, according to a statement from the State Department. The two leaders also touched upon progress in the Venezuelan-led reconciliation talks, focusing on institutional reforms to establish a foundation for legitimate elections.
Rubio had previously criticized Venezuela's electoral infrastructure, stating that it was rigged and needed to be replaced before any valid election could take place. In early January, President Donald Trump authorized a US military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the seizure of former President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
They are now facing trial in New York. Since then, Trump has endorsed Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro's former vice president, who has become the interim president and has been governing the nation under US supervision.
The Trump administration has proposed holding presidential elections in Venezuela next year. However, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado contends that the US has suggested a presidential election in the coming year. The administration backs talks between the Rodriguez government and opposition groups, excluding Machado's Vente Venezuela movement, regarding the overhaul of Venezuela's electoral council and top court prior to the next elections.
The Rodriguez interim administration has signed deals with various entities interested in oil and gas production, backed by the United States.
On Monday, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Oliver Blanco also met with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. They discussed boosting energy production and attracting investments into Venezuela. The United Nations Human Rights Office has accused the US of violating international law through its intervention in Venezuela. Human rights advocates argue that Trump's emphasis on exploiting Venezuelan oil is reminiscent of imperialist practices.
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