Trump bets on intimidation to force Venezuelan leaders into line

After removing President Nicolas Maduro from power, the Trump administration is gambling that it can intimidate the Venezuelan leader's inner circle into toeing the U.S. line with threats of further military action that could put them at risk of a similar fate, according to sources familiar with the matter.



The United States would consider another military operation in Venezuela if the interim government in the South American nation did not cooperate, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One traveling from Florida to Washington that more military intervention was on the table. "If they don't behave, we will do a second strike," he said.



Asked if this would mean that U.S. troops would be deployed on the ground to conduct peacekeeping, Trump said it would depend on the actions of the government now led by Interim President Delcy Rodriguez.



Trump's advisers also believe they may be able to work behind the scenes with Rodriguez, who despite her public defiance, is seen as a technocrat who might be amenable to working with the U.S. on a political transition and key oil-related issues, according to three people briefed on the U.S. strategy.



Trump said he wants Rodriguez to give the U.S. and private companies "total access" to Venezuela's beleaguered oil infrastructure, as well as roads and bridges that are in disrepair. If she and the interim government do not cooperate, Trump told reporters they could face a strong response.