Rodríguez says Venezuela is not afraid of diplomatic confrontation with the United States.

Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has stated that her government is not afraid of a diplomatic confrontation with the United States, even after the controversial removal of her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, in a U.S. military operation earlier this month.

CBI News reports that Rodríguez made the remarks on Thursday during an address to lawmakers at the National Assembly in Caracas, against the backdrop of heightened global scrutiny and shifting relations with Washington.

Rodríguez's comments reflect her effort to balance diplomatic engagement with the United States while maintaining loyalty to Maduro’s supporters, who continue to wield influence in key Venezuelan institutions.

“We know they are very powerful. We know they are a lethal nuclear power… We are not afraid to confront them diplomatically, through political dialogue,” Rodríguez said, dismissing fears of a diplomatic clash with the United States.

She also urged Washington to show respect for the dignity of Maduro, who is currently facing drug‑trafficking and other charges in U.S. courts following his capture.

Rodríguez, who served as vice president under Maduro and was sworn in as interim president on January 5 to ensure continuity of government, delivered what was widely interpreted as a state of the nation address in his absence, receiving strong applause from lawmakers.

Her government has signalled a willingness to engage with foreign partners on economic issues, including proposed reforms to Venezuela’s hydrocarbon sector aimed at attracting investment, even as it seeks to navigate the complex diplomatic landscape with the United States.