Venezuela Considers Opening Oil Industry After Maduro’s Ouster
CARACAS – Following the removal of Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez has suggested opening up the country’s oil industry to more foreign investment. This proposal comes after the United States took action regarding Venezuelan crude sales.
Rodriguez outlined a potential new direction for Venezuela, urging foreign investors to consider opportunities within the nation. She also called on lawmakers to consider reforms that would allow foreign companies to access Venezuela’s oil reserves.
“Venezuela, with free trade, can sell its energy products to the world,” she stated.
The U.S. government has expressed intentions to ensure that revenue from oil sales benefits the Venezuelan people. Rodriguez described plans for directing oil revenue into funds for healthcare and public infrastructure.
While expressing concern over the circumstances surrounding Maduro’s removal, Rodriguez also advocated for renewed diplomacy between Venezuela and the U.S. She emphasized the need for respectful dialogue.
Rodriguez also mentioned that her government would continue releasing prisoners.
These developments come as opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, met with President Donald Trump in Washington.
Machado, whose party is thought to have won the 2024 elections, said she presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump.
Meanwhile, state-run media in Venezuela continues to broadcast pro-government messages, including statements from Iranian and Russian officials and coverage of rallies supporting Maduro.
David Smilde, a Venezuela expert, noted that the government seems to be maintaining its stance while being open for economic progress.
Many Venezuelans have expressed uncertainty about the future, acknowledging the influence of the United States in the nation’s current situation.
