Overview
- Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said the United States has started unblocking Venezuelan assets frozen under sanctions, with plans to channel resources into hospital equipment bought from the U.S. and other countries.
- Rodriguez did not disclose amounts; Nicolás Maduro previously estimated about $30 billion in Venezuelan funds were frozen by international measures.
- At a ceremony in Caracas, the armed forces and police pledged loyalty and “absolute submission” to Rodriguez, as Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez presented symbols of command.
- Rodriguez urged opponents she labeled extremist to “stay in Washington,” a pointed message as opposition leader María Corina Machado met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and said she distrusts Rodriguez.
- U.S. engagement advanced with the appointment of Laura F. Dogu as chargé d’affaires for Venezuela, while Rubio warned the U.S. could again use force if cooperation falls short.