Reuters reported today, citing an unnamed US official, that Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director John Ratcliffe followed instructions from President Donald Trump and traveled to Venezuela's capital, Caracas, to meet interim President Delcy Rodriguez. The two-hour meeting focused on building trust between Washington and Caracas.

The meeting aimed to "convey the message that the US desires improved cooperation" with Venezuela. Interim President Rodriguez and the CIA director reportedly discussed intelligence cooperation, economic stability, and ensuring Venezuela "is no longer a safe haven for drug traffickers."

CIA Director John Ratcliffe at Capitol Hill on 5/1. *Photo: AP*

US and Venezuelan officials have not commented on the information. This potential meeting follows a phone call between President Trump and interim President Rodriguez on 14/1, which both leaders described as a positive discussion.

Rodriguez was appointed Venezuela's interim president after the US launched a raid and arrested President Nicolas Maduro and his wife on 3/1.

Venezuela's interim leader has sent mixed signals recently regarding cooperation with the US. On one hand, she consistently criticized US operations as illegal and strongly opposed foreign intervention. On the other hand, she accepted negotiations with Washington on oil and explored resuming diplomatic ties.

Ngoc Anh (According to Reuters, CNN, CBS)