The administration of United States President Donald Trump has reportedly presented a stark choice to Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez. According to a report by ABC, Washington has demanded an exclusive partnership for oil production and preferential treatment in the sale of heavy crude.
US Ultimatum: Exclude Rivals for Exclusive Partnership
Beyond the proposed oil alliance, the Trump administration's demands are far-reaching. The US has explicitly asked Venezuela to "kick out" China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba from its economic sphere. Citing three sources familiar with the matter, the report states that Caracas was told to sever its economic ties with these long-standing partners.
This would represent a seismic political shift for Venezuela. For years, under the regimes of Hugo Chavez and Nicolás Maduro, the nation has leaned heavily on these countries for crucial economic support and security stability. The exact scope of the proposed exclusions remains unclear, but the direction is unambiguous.
Oil as the Centerpiece of US Strategy
In an interview, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker outlined the core of the US approach. He confirmed that the strategy hinges on controlling Venezuela's vast oil resources. Notably, Wicker expressed confidence that this plan could be executed without the need to deploy American troops on the ground.
A senior administration official framed the objective as exerting "maximum leverage" to ensure cooperation from remaining elements in Venezuela. The goals include halting illegal migration, stopping drug flows, and revitalising the country's crumbling oil infrastructure. "Doing what is right for the Venezuelan people" was also cited as a key aim.
Pressure to Expel Advisers and Future Oil Plans
Further details from a New York Times report indicate the US is pressuring Rodríguez to expel advisers from China, Russia, Cuba, and Iran, though some diplomatic staff might be allowed to stay. Senior US officials have, however, confirmed that the United States has no plans to militarily occupy Venezuela.
President Trump has consistently positioned the US to play a dominant role in Venezuela's future, a role he envisions being financed primarily by the nation's oil revenues. In a significant announcement on Tuesday evening, Trump stated that Venezuela would begin sending up to 50 million barrels of oil to the US. He clarified this oil would be sold at market price, with the earnings intended to benefit both nations.
To advance these plans, the US administration is expected to meet with American oil companies within the next week to discuss potential investments in the South American nation's energy sector.
