Venezuela Interim Government Signs Massive Oil Deal With US
Delcy Rodríguez leads Venezuela's interim administration in a historic rapprochement with the United States, securing a massive oil deal amid backlash from Chavista loyalists.
The interim administration of Venezuela, led by Delcy Rodríguez, has entered a historic rapprochement with the United States. This diplomatic shift follows the January 3, 2026, abduction of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, which placed Rodríguez in control of the interim government.
President Donald Trump and Rodríguez negotiated a massive oil agreement, which Trump described as "the biggest oil deal in world history." Rodríguez defended the deal, stating it would generate over $209bn in revenue to fund healthcare and education. The renewed engagement included high-level visits to Caracas by U.S. officials, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright and the head of the CIA.
The pivot has sparked intense outrage among diehard Chavistas and former government officials. Mario Silva and Elías Jaua condemned the cooperation as a "shameful and utterly illegitimate surrender" and a betrayal of Hugo Chávez's anti-imperialist legacy. While critics view the deal as an act of pillage, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello defended Rodríguez's diplomatic efforts and her visit to New York.
