In a significant development following the arrest of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, the US administration has now set its sights on another powerful figure within the country: Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. The White House has issued a direct and stern warning to Cabello, making it clear that his security could be at risk and he could be placed at the top of their target list if he fails to cooperate with the interim leadership and adhere to American conditions, ensuring stability in the nation, while this move underscores the Trump administration's aggressive stance in shaping the political landscape of Venezuela.
Direct Threat to Cabello
Sources indicate that US officials have conveyed the message to Cabello through intermediaries, warning him that if he refuses to cooperate, he could face a similar fate to Maduro. The message also hinted that his life could be in danger if he chooses confrontation over collaboration. This direct communication highlights the US's determination to exert influence and ensure a smooth transition of power, or at least one that aligns with its strategic interests in the region. The severity of the warning suggests that the US is prepared to take drastic measures to achieve its objectives.
Why Cabello is a US Target
Diosdado Cabello is widely regarded as one of Maduro's most trusted and hardline allies. He commands significant control over security forces that have been accused of severe human rights violations. American officials fear that Cabello's long-standing rivalry with interim President Delcy Rodriguez could disrupt the process of power transition. According to Reuters, the Trump administration initially aims to work with some of Maduro's loyalists as temporary rulers to prevent chaos in the country. However, in the long term, the US plans to remove Cabello from power and potentially send him into exile, while his influence and control over key state apparatus make him a critical figure in the ongoing political maneuvering.
Defense Minister Padrino Also Under Scrutiny
Beyond Cabello, the US is also keeping a close watch on Venezuela's Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino. Padrino faces accusations of drug trafficking in the US and has a multi-million dollar bounty on his head, while american officials believe that Padrino's strong grip on the military could play a crucial role in the power transition. So, ensuring his cooperation or neutralizing his potential for obstruction is a key part of the. US strategy to manage the post-Maduro era and stabilize the country under a new, US-friendly leadership.
US Demands from Interim President
Delcy Rodriguez is considered a pivotal figure in the US strategy. Washington's demands include opening Venezuela's oil sector to American companies, curbing drug trafficking, and severing ties with Cuba and Iran, while to exert further pressure, the US has reportedly identified Rodriguez's assets in Qatar, which could be subject to seizure. These conditions reflect a broader US agenda to reshape Venezuela's economic and foreign policy, aligning it more closely with American interests and isolating it from perceived adversaries in the region and globally, while the pressure on Rodriguez is immense, as she navigates the complex demands of the US while attempting to establish her authority.
