Trump Administration Directs Prosecutors to Halt Investigations into Venezuelan Leader Delcy Rodríguez

The Trump administration has instructed federal prosecutors in Miami to refrain from pursuing criminal investigations into Delcy Rodríguez, the acting President of Venezuela, according to sources within U.S. law enforcement. This directive is seen as part of an effort to improve relations between the U.S. and Venezuela following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro. While it remains unclear if Rodríguez was implicated in any criminal activities, she has been a subject of interest for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) since at least 2018, though she has not faced any charges. A Justice Department spokesperson stated that there was never an investigation into her. The decision to pause scrutiny is aimed at supporting the administration's stabilization efforts in Venezuela. Rodríguez has been recognized by the U.S. as the head of state and has recently had sanctions lifted, allowing her to engage with U.S. investors. Critics, including Senator Jeanne Shaheen, have questioned this favorable treatment, citing Rodríguez's role in Maduro's regime. The DEA has maintained a file on Rodríguez, with allegations ranging from drug trafficking to money laundering, but the current administration's approach appears to prioritize diplomatic relations over legal actions.