US Energy Secretary Chris Wright touts oil production on Venezuela visit

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright visited Venezuela on February 11, 2026, meeting with interim President Delcy Rodriguez to discuss increased foreign oil investment. This marks the first visit by a Trump administration cabinet member to Venezuela, despite strained relations between the two countries. Wright conveyed President Trump's commitment to transforming the US-Venezuela relationship as part of a broader agenda to strengthen the Americas. He acknowledged past tensions but suggested a shift under the Trump administration, referencing the president's vision of "manifest destiny" and a hemisphere-wide approach. The visit occurred as Democrats introduced legislation in the US to increase transparency regarding Venezuelan oil sales.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright visited Venezuela, marking a significant warming of relations between the two countries after the capture of Nicolás Maduro. Wright, one of the highest-ranking U.S. officials to visit in nearly 30 years, urged Venezuela to further overhaul its energy industry to attract foreign investment. Despite recent legislative changes aimed at opening the oil sector, Wright believes more needs to be done to encourage substantial capital flow. He met with interim President Delcy Rodríguez and plans to tour oil-producing operations. While acknowledging risks, Wright emphasized the potential for investment in Venezuela, drawing parallels to Libya and its oil sector.