On Friday, President Donald Trump suggested that Delcy Rodríguez, the interim leader of Venezuela, "appears to be an ally" of the United States and expressed confidence that she will remain so. He made these remarks while asserting a desire to limit Russian and Chinese influence in the South American nation.
Trump convened with executives from major global oil companies as part of his administration's strategy to revamp Venezuela's oil industry, enhance its security, and lower crude prices for the United States.
In a White House press briefing, when questioned about Venezuela's stance under Rodríguez's leadership, Trump remarked, "At this point, they seem to be an ally, and I believe they will continue to be."
He further emphasized that the U.S. is keen on preventing Russia and China from establishing a foothold in Venezuela, as Washington takes a proactive role in managing the country's oil resources.
The president underscored the administration's collaboration with Venezuelan authorities to facilitate investments exceeding $100 billion in energy infrastructure and to coordinate the sale and refinement of up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, with revenues monitored by the United States.
Trump also reassured oil industry leaders about security guarantees for operations in Venezuela, highlighting the importance of Venezuelan workers given their high unemployment rates and expertise in the sector.
This stance emerges amid diplomatic shifts following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3 and Rodríguez's subsequent appointment as interim president.
Simultaneously, the U.S. dispatched a delegation to Caracas on Friday to assess the potential reopening of its embassy, having previously called off a second wave of military actions due to Venezuelan cooperation, including the release of political prisoners.
Despite Trump's overtures, Rodríguez has maintained rhetorical distance, describing the U.S. intervention as a "blemish" on bilateral relations. She has stated that Venezuela is not subservient to foreign agents, though she acknowledges a willingness to explore energy partnerships that benefit all parties involved.
Trump's newfound approach towards the Venezuelan leader contrasts with prior months of open confrontation, illustrating the significance the U.S. administration places on controlling energy resources in this evolving chapter of engagement with Caracas. This comes as a part of a broader geopolitical reconfiguration that redefines U.S. connections, alliances, and priorities in the region.
U.S.-Venezuela Relations and Oil Control Efforts
Why does the U.S. want to limit Russian and Chinese influence in Venezuela?
The U.S. aims to limit Russian and Chinese influence to maintain control over Venezuela's strategic oil resources and to prevent these nations from gaining a foothold in the region, which could challenge U.S. economic and geopolitical interests.
What role does Delcy Rodríguez play in the current U.S.-Venezuela relations?
Delcy Rodríguez, as the interim leader of Venezuela, is seen as a potential ally by the U.S. administration. Her leadership is crucial as the U.S. seeks to manage and invest in Venezuela's energy sector while navigating diplomatic ties.
How is the U.S. planning to invest in Venezuela's oil industry?
The U.S. plans to channel over $100 billion in investments into Venezuela's energy infrastructure, focusing on the sale and refinement of oil, while ensuring revenue management under U.S. oversight.