Trump administration asks Florida court to grant Delcy Rodríguez immunity in suit by three former US detainees

The US government asked a federal court in Florida to recognize Delcy Rodríguez's immunity as head of a foreign state, in a lawsuit by three Americans who were detained in Venezuela, Europa Press reported. Judge Darrin Gayles had already imposed $314 million in damages on the defendants.

According to NTN24, the request originated with Venezuela's embassy before the State Department. Patricia Poleo said Trump is thereby giving Rodríguez legitimacy to attract investors.

«It is obvious that Donald Trump sees all of this as a business deal and is treating it that way.»— Patricia Poleo, July 22, 2026 · watch