According to the American Axios news website, the day after Venezuelan opposition leader Maduro returned to his country with a high-profile visit, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson issued a subtle warning, urging not to interfere in the 'fragile democratic transition' that is being promoted by President Trump's administration in that country.
On October 26, Rubio told reporters, “It’s impossible to achieve democracy through street protests.” He did not explicitly mention Machado.
According to reports, Machado has called for elections next year and has criticized the huge oil deal signed between the United States and the government led by Venezuelan President Roderick. This has caused concern among U.S. government officials after his sudden return to his country.
“Rubio feels extremely uneasy politically,” said a White House source familiar with Rubio’s thoughts. “Venezuela is the greatest foreign policy achievement of this administration. If the progress we have made is overturned, and Machado becomes the disruptor, then no one will win.”
Machado's spokesperson did not respond to the request for comment.
It is reported that both Machado and U.S. officials agree that Venezuela needs to hold elections. However, Machado wants to hold them in 2027, while U.S. officials have not yet determined a specific date. The U.S. hopes to achieve three things first: reform the Venezuelan Supreme Court, reform the Venezuelan National Election Council, and resolve Venezuela’s debt problems.
According to Axios in September, Trump discussed all three of these topics with Rodriguez. He also privately told her that elections would be necessary someday.
In Rubio's briefing notes, a senior U.S. State Department official added another potential topic—reforming the security department. This also requires time.
According to reports, Rubio did not provide a specific timeline. However, he told reporters that he would not let the government led by Rodriguez hinder the Trump administration. “What if they just want to drag us down for two years? That won’t happen. I mean, we have a agreed-upon timeline, and so far, they have met all the requirements at every point in time.”
He said that he hopes to serve as Secretary of State for as long as possible. “Obviously, I intend to get this done before leaving.”
On the 26th, Rodriguez did not name Machado, but said that he should feel regret and apologize for supporting ‘external attacks and military invasions against Venezuela’.
Axios's remarks seem to be referring to the US-backed detention of Venezuelan President Maduro.
Regarding this, Rubio stated that his concern was Rodriguez's actions, not his statements. "Ultimately, if we can have a new Supreme Court, a new Electoral Commission, a new election, and a new government system, that is what we want."
On October 25th, Machado posted on social media saying, "I’m back, and I’m with you."
Rubio also stated on social media that the conditions for Machado's safe return to Venezuela were a direct result of the reconciliation talks supported by the United States.
