Delcy Rodríguez

Delcy Rodríguez is the interim president of Venezuela, who has recently become a central figure in a highly debated energy deal with the United States, brokered by former President Donald Trump. Rodríguez has publicly defended the agreement, asserting that Venezuela will retain ownership and sovereignty over its vast oil reserves, despite the US securing "majority" control over an estimated 65 billion barrels. This deal has drawn criticism from Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who deems the regime illegitimate and questions the right to strike such an oil deal. US officials, like Energy Secretary Chris Wright, have denied accusations of "gunpoint diplomacy" or heavy-handed tactics, stating the US is not seeking to commandeer oil. The agreement, which also involves private businesses like North American Blue Energy Partners, is expected to lead to expanded operations by oil giants such as Chevron in Venezuela. Rodríguez's role in these negotiations highlights her government's efforts to leverage the country's oil resources amidst international scrutiny and domestic political challenges.