Trump Warns Venezuela’s Interim Leader She’ll Pay a ‘Very Big Price’ If She Refuses to Cooperate

US President Donald Trump told reporters on Monday that he believes Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, will eventually step aside and pave the way for free elections. He warned that if she refuses to cooperate, she could face consequences “even bigger than Maduro,” signaling a hard‑line stance from the White House. Trump’s remarks came after U.S. forces seized Nicolás Maduro in a surprise operation, leaving the Venezuelan Supreme Court to appoint Rodríguez as the interim leader.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the president’s sentiment, saying Washington will keep all options on the table, including the possibility of a limited U.S. military presence to support a democratic transition. Rubio emphasized that the United States is prepared to work with any Venezuelan figure who genuinely seeks to restore democracy, but warned that those who clain to protect the nation’s resources will be held accountable.

Rodríguez, who has rejected U.S. pressure, vowed to defend Venezuela’s sovereignty and its oil wealth. She insisted that any foreign intervention would be met with firm resistance and called on the Venezuelan people to remain united against external threats. Her defiant stance has deepened the political crisis, with opposition leaders urging her to step down and allow a credible electoral process.

Analysts say the Trump administration’s focus on Rodríguez could either pressure the interim government into concessions or further isolate Venezuela on the international stage. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether diplomatic efforts can translate into tangible progress toward free, fair elections.