Rubio Urges Patience Over Venezuela’s Political Transition: The Process Should Take Months, Not Years

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for patience over Venezuela’s political transition, expressing hope that the process will be completed within “months, not years.”

The first round of talks between representatives of interim President Delcy Rodriguez and members of the opposition is expected to take place in Caracas this week. The meeting comes seven months after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was overthrown and arrested during a US military operation.

Reports indicate that the initial discussions will address the aftermath of the two earthquakes on June 24, which left more than 6,000 people dead. Strengthening democracy and guaranteeing political rights will also be a focus.

Delcy Rodriguez, who previously served as vice president, assumed office as interim president under pressure from President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump has voiced his support for the dialogue.

During a ceremony marking the signing of a civil nuclear energy agreement with Paraguay, Rubio told reporters: “It is clear that much work remains to be done to lay the groundwork for elections.”

Speaking about the “progress being made” in Venezuela, he added: “It requires persistence and a little patience. We are certainly talking about months and weeks, not years.”