Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, has publicly referred to U.S. President Donald Trump as a “friend” and “partner,” signaling a notable shift in diplomatic relations following the arrest of former President Nicolás Maduro. This change in tone raises hopes for improved human rights and the potential easing of sanctions imposed on Venezuela.
Rodríguez made her remarks during a public event attended by Maduro’s son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, emphasizing her desire for a new era in U.S.-Venezuelan relations. This follows Trump’s earlier characterization of Venezuela as a “new friend” of the United States, suggesting a willingness to engage more closely. In a striking acknowledgment of this budding relationship, Trump highlighted the significant increase in American oil production and noted that Venezuela supplied over 80 million barrels of oil to the U.S., exceeding prior estimates.
Despite being home to the world’s largest known oil reserves, Venezuela’s oil production has plummeted due to numerous factors, including socialist policies and the emigration or imprisonment of skilled professionals. Rodríguez’s efforts to rectify the situation, including enlisting Iranian engineers, had limited success before Maduro’s arrest.
During her speech, Rodríguez expressed hope for an end to sanctions and blockades imposed on Venezuela, asserting that her country has never posed a threat to the United States. She framed the current geopolitical landscape as an opportunity for cooperation, stating, “This situation has opened a new cooperation agenda with the United States.”
Rodríguez’s comments suggest that the path forward for U.S.-Venezuelan relations will be contingent on Venezuela’s commitment to improving its human rights record. This includes distancing itself from nations viewed as adversaries by the U.S., such as Cuba, China, and Russia. Reports indicate that Rodríguez is taking steps to remove Cuban agents who have exerted significant influence over the Venezuelan government.
Amid these developments, Rodríguez described the beginning of the year as challenging, particularly following the military operation that led to Maduro’s arrest. She referred to the situation as “military aggression,” yet she remains optimistic about the future of U.S.-Venezuelan relations.
On the human rights front, both Rodríguez and her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, have committed to releasing political prisoners. Trump’s acknowledgment of the plight faced by anti-socialist individuals in Venezuela further underscores the potential for a renewed dialogue. During his recent State of the Union address, he invited Enrique Márquez, a politician imprisoned after challenging Maduro in the 2024 elections, as a guest, highlighting the human impact of the political situation.
The evolving dynamics in U.S.-Venezuelan relations under Rodríguez’s leadership present both opportunities and challenges. The future of Venezuela hangs in the balance as the nation navigates a new chapter in its international relations.
