Behind the Scenes: US Prepares for a Post-Maduro Venezuela

The US government is secretly working on plans for what might happen if Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro steps down. This isn't just about moving troops around; it's about figuring out what comes next if Maduro leaves, whether he goes willingly or is forced out.

Inside the White House

Different groups are discussing various options. Some involve direct action, while others focus on supporting a new government. The goal is to stabilize Venezuela and prevent chaos. But there's no clear decision yet on how to make Maduro leave or who might take his place.

Trump's Stance

Trump has talked tough about Maduro, even warning him directly to step down. But experts say Maduro isn't likely to negotiate in good faith. He's broken deals before, so the US is preparing for different scenarios. The opposition in Venezuela has its own plans, but it's unclear how much the US is considering them.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

The US wants to avoid a situation like Iraq in 2003, where there was no clear plan for what came after the regime change. Having a plan ready could make it harder for Trump to back down, but it also puts the US in a tricky position. They need to figure out how to recognize and support a new government, whether it's led by the opposition or includes other political groups.

Opposition and International Influence

The opposition in Venezuela is working closely with the US, but there aren't regular high-level meetings. Both sides want a freer and safer region, with less influence from countries like Cuba, Iran, Russia, and China. But the US is still figuring out how to make that happen.