Trump Wants Maduro to Go. Here’s Who Could Replace Him in Venezuela.
Several senior Venezuelan officials and opposition politicians would have a claim to power in a transition, but all would face difficulties.
President Trump has been increasing pressure on Venezuela’s leader, Nicolás Maduro, labeling him the head of a terrorist organization, amassing warships in the Caribbean, claiming to close the Venezuelan airspace and suggesting imminent strikes on the country.
The Trump administration publicly asserts that its campaign is aimed at preventing Venezuela’s government from sending drugs and criminals to the United States. Former and current officials, however, have said in private that the White House’s ultimate goal is the departure of Mr. Maduro, who has held on to power despite losing a presidential election last year.
“It’s not a pressure campaign, it’s much beyond that,” Mr. Trump told reporters on Wednesday, referring to Venezuela. He added, “You can’t cheat on elections like they did, and be stupid.”
When a reporter asked him last month if Mr. Maduro’s days as president were numbered, Mr. Trump answered, “I would say yeah.”
The New York Times has reported that the Pentagon has drawn plans for potential military actions in Venezuela, including for Special Operations forces to try to kill or capture Mr. Maduro.
People close to Venezuela’s government have said the stress of resisting Mr. Trump’s pressure has tired Mr. Maduro physically and emotionally, and he has tightened personal security in response to Washington’s threats. His officials suggested to Washington this year that Mr. Maduro might consider leaving office in 2027. The Trump administration, however, has pushed for a quicker resignation.
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