Trump says Venezuela 'not ready yet' to hold elections
12:47, 03/09/2026, Thursday
AA
File photo
US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Venezuela is "not ready yet" to hold elections, arguing that the country requires more time to transition from dictatorship following the US military operation that captured former leader Nicolas Maduro in early January.
US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Venezuela is "not ready yet" to hold elections, arguing that Caracas requires additional time to stabilize following the removal of former leader Nicolas Maduro. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump emphasized that the transition from dictatorship remains in its early stages.
White House remarks
Trump dismissed suggestions that Washington should demand immediate electoral deadlines from the interim government. "I just don't think they're ready yet. You know, it's very new," he told reporters at the Oval Office. "We took them out of a dictatorship, and we're getting along great with the government," he added.
Interim leadership praised
The US president offered strong backing for Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodriguez, saying she was "doing a very, very good job" and commanded significant respect among officials. "Delcy wants it, but they're not ready yet," Trump said, referring to the proposed vote. He noted that the nation would not be prepared for democratic contests in the immediate future.
Maduro capture
Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were detained on January 3 following a US military intervention in Venezuela. Washington has accused the former leader of drug terrorism and cocaine trafficking. Rodriguez assumed the interim presidency following Maduro's capture.
