Venezuela's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez on Saturday demanded the immediate release of the U.S.-captured President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, LETA reported, citing DPA and AFP.
Speaking at a meeting of the country's Defense Council, which was broadcast live, Rodriguez emphasized that Maduro is the "only president" of Venezuela.
"We will never be slaves again," said the vice president, who, according to the Venezuelan constitution, must take over the leadership of the country until new elections if the president loses his powers.
She characterized the U.S. operation as a violation of the UN Charter and called it a "horrible stain" on bilateral relations between Venezuela and the U.S.
"We are ready to defend Venezuela, we are ready to defend our natural resources," Rodriguez stated.
U.S. President Donald Trump, at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, stated that his administration intends to work with Rodriguez, as "she is essentially ready to do whatever we deem necessary to make Venezuela great again."
Rodriguez, who served as foreign minister from 2014 to 2017, pursued a confrontational policy towards the U.S., which she continued in her role as vice president.
Trump also stated that the U.S. plans to manage Venezuela until a transition of power is ensured.
According to him, Rodriguez had a long conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in which she promised to "do whatever it takes."
"I think she was quite gracious, but in reality, she has no choice," Trump added.
On Saturday, Trump stated that U.S. forces captured Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores during the operation. They are being transported to New York, where they will face charges related to various drug offenses.
Trump also announced that American oil companies will be involved in developing oil production in Venezuela.
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