Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, signaled a potential shift in relations with the United States, offering to collaborate with Washington on areas of mutual interest. The conciliatory gesture, made in a statement released late Sunday, followed a period of heightened tension after the apprehension of Nicolás Maduro, the former president, and his wife, Cilia Flores, on Saturday.

Rodríguez's statement, delivered from the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, included an invitation to the U.S. government to engage in cooperative efforts. This development arrives amidst a complex political landscape in Venezuela, a nation grappling with economic instability and a protracted power struggle.

The shift in tone from Rodríguez came shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning, stating that Maduro's former vice-president could face severe consequences if she did not comply with his demands. The specifics of Trump's demands were not immediately clear.

Venezuela has been in a state of political turmoil for years, exacerbated by a deep economic crisis marked by hyperinflation, shortages of essential goods, and mass emigration. Maduro's leadership was widely criticized internationally for alleged human rights abuses and undermining democratic institutions. The United States, along with numerous other countries, had previously recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the legitimate interim president of Venezuela.

The capture of Maduro creates a power vacuum in a country already struggling with legitimacy and governance. Rodríguez, now at the helm, faces the daunting task of navigating Venezuela through this turbulent period while also managing the country's relationship with key international actors, including the United States.

Analysts suggest that Rodríguez's overture to the U.S. could be a pragmatic move aimed at securing international support and potentially easing economic sanctions that have crippled Venezuela's economy. However, the extent to which the U.S. will reciprocate remains uncertain, as Washington has yet to formally respond to Rodríguez's offer. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing political divisions within Venezuela and the potential for further instability. The international community is closely watching developments as Venezuela navigates this critical juncture.