In Venezuela, Freeing the Economy, but Nothing Else

In Venezuela, interim leader Delcy Rodríguez is rapidly liberalizing the economy following the removal of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces in January 2026. She is redirecting oil exports to the U.S., injecting funds into the banking system, and rewriting laws to attract foreign investment. These actions have stabilized the currency, spurred economic growth forecasts, and attracted foreign investors. While promising economic transparency, Rodríguez has not dismantled the existing repressive state apparatus, with security forces maintaining a visible presence and monitoring citizens. The economic changes have created optimism, but concerns remain about the lack of political reform under her leadership.

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