'We are not afraid' of diplomatic clash with US: Venezuela leaderCARACAS, Jan 16, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez said Thursday her government does not fear diplomatic confrontation with the United States, which ousted her predecessor Nicolas Maduro in a January 3 military strike. We know they are a lethal nuclear power... We are not afraid to confront them diplomatically, through political dialogue," said Rodriguez. Trump said on social media he and Rodriguez had discussed "many topics," including oil, minerals, trade and national security. Rodriguez has been walking a diplomatic tightrope, trying to meet Trump's demands without alienating Maduro loyalists who control Venezuela's security forces and feared paramilitaries. She described her call with the US leader as "productive and courteous" and characterized by "mutual respect."

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 16, 2026 14:41 UTC