US Lifts Sanctions on Jorge Rodriguez for Oil Access
The United States government lifted sanctions on Venezuelan legislative leader Jorge Rodriguez following a deal granting Washington access to 17 oilfields.
The United States Department of the Treasury lifted sanctions on Jorge Rodriguez, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly, on October 14, 2026. The decision follows a diplomatic agreement between Washington and Caracas that grants the United States access to 17 Venezuelan oilfields.
This move aligns with a plan announced by President Donald Trump in August to secure a significant share of Venezuelan oil to refill the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The shift in policy comes after the United States ousted former President Nicolas Maduro, who is currently awaiting trial on US charges.
Jorge Rodriguez and Acting President Delcy Rodriguez are now expected to lead efforts to modify Venezuelan oil legislation. These legislative changes are intended to facilitate the entry of additional foreign energy companies into the country.
