The president Donald Trump stated this Friday that Delcy Rodríguez, the interim leader of Venezuela, “seems to be an ally” of the United States and that he believes she “will continue to be one,” while emphasizing that he does not want the presence of Russia or China in the South American country.
Trump met during the day with representatives of major oil companies from around the world as part of the Republican administration's efforts to rebuild the Venezuelan oil industry, ensure its stability, and reduce crude prices for the United States.
In that context, during a press conference at the White House, the head of the U.S. executive branch responded to a question regarding Venezuela's position under the new leadership of Rodríguez.
“At this moment, they seem to be an ally, and I believe they will continue to be,” he specified when referring to Rodríguez.
Trump also emphasized that the United States does not want Russia or China to be present in Venezuela, at a time when Washington is taking a direct role in managing the oil resources of the South American country.
The president reinforced the idea that the administration is working closely with Venezuelan authorities to facilitate investments of at least 100 billion dollars in energy infrastructure and to coordinate the sale and refining of up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil, with revenues under U.S. supervision.
Trump also assured oil executives of security guarantees to operate in Venezuelan territory, highlighting the role of Venezuelan workers given the high unemployment rates and their experience in the industry.
This positioning occurs in a context of tension and diplomatic realignment following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by American forces on January 3 and the appointment of Rodríguez as interim president.
At the same time, the United States sent a delegation to Caracas on Friday to assess the reopening of its embassy, after announcing the cancellation of a second wave of military attacks, citing cooperation from the Venezuelan government, including gestures such as the release of political prisoners.
Despite Trump's message, Rodríguez has maintained rhetorical distance from Caracas by describing the U.S. incursion as a "stain" on bilateral relations.
At the same time, it has assured that Venezuela is not subordinate to external agents, although it has acknowledged the openness to energy relations “where all parties benefit.”
Trump's declarative shift towards the Venezuelan official contrasts with months of open confrontation and reflects the emphasis that the U.S. administration places on energy control in this new chapter of interaction with Caracas, amidst a geopolitical reconfiguration that is redefining the ties, alliances, and priorities of the United States in the region.
Filed under:
