Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez stated Monday from The Hague that Venezuela has “never sought” to become the 51st state of the United States, responding to renewed comments from U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting the possibility.

“If there is something that defines Venezuelans, it is our love for independence and for the heroes of our independence,” Rodríguez said when asked about Trump’s remarks.

Rodríguez assumed leadership after former President Nicolás Maduro was arrested by U.S. special forces during a military operation carried out on January 3.

Despite political tensions, Rodríguez said her administration is pursuing a “diplomatic cooperation agenda” with Washington after diplomatic relations between the two countries were restored in March, ending a seven-year freeze imposed under Maduro’s government.

Her comments came during a visit to The Hague, where she attended proceedings at the International Court of Justice regarding the oil-rich Essequibo region, administered by Guyana but claimed by Caracas.

Meanwhile, U.S. media reported Monday that Trump told Fox News he is “seriously considering” making Venezuela the 51st U.S. state. Earlier in March, Trump also hinted at the idea in a post on Truth Social, writing: “Good things are happening in Venezuela lately. Maybe there’s a magical reason for that? The 51st state?”

Rodríguez has introduced major reforms to Venezuela’s oil and mining sectors, opening the door for greater private investment, including from American companies.

Her administration also approved a large-scale pardon that led to the release of hundreds of political prisoners, although around 500 reportedly remain detained. Rodríguez has additionally pledged reforms to the country’s judicial system.

Trump has repeatedly praised several of Rodríguez’s measures and has launched a gradual easing of sanctions on the Caribbean nation.