White house affirms military option, close ties to Venezuela interim government

The Trump administration confirmed on Wednesday that it is maintaining close communication with Venezuela's interim government following a recent military operation aimed at capturing President Nicolás Maduro. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the U.S. currently holds "maximum leverage" over the interim authorities in the South American nation.

The Stance on Military Force

Addressing the potential for direct intervention, Leavitt reiterated that there are currently no American troops on the ground in Venezuela. However, she explicitly stated that President Donald Trump "reserves the right to use the United States military if necessary." The remarks underscore a continued policy of applying pressure while keeping all options open regarding the political crisis in Venezuela.

Administration Coordination

Leavitt detailed that the administration's approach is being coordinated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, and the president's full national security team. This high-level involvement highlights the significance of the Venezuela issue for U.S. foreign policy, which has consistently opposed the Maduro government and recognized its opponents.

Geopolitical Context and Türkiye's Stance

The situation in Venezuela remains a focal point of international diplomacy, often highlighting divergent approaches between Western powers and other nations. Türkiye, alongside allies like Russia and Iran, has maintained diplomatic relations with Maduro's government, opposing foreign intervention and advocating for dialogue—a position that contrasts with the U.S. strategy of applying maximum pressure and recognizing interim authorities.