United States drives political and economic reforms in Venezuela

Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro on January 3, the United States has implemented a three-phase plan—stabilization, recovery, and political transition—to drive reforms in Venezuela. Under the administration of Donald Trump, Washington has recognized Delcy Rodríguez, the former vice president, as interim president to lead these changes.

Key components of the U.S.-led strategy include taking control of Venezuelan crude oil sales to stimulate the return of American oil companies and reforming petroleum and mining legislation to encourage private investment. Additionally, the U.S. is working to restore the Venezuelan electrical system and is gradually lifting sanctions to reintegrate the country into international organizations.

On the political front, the U.S. is facilitating dialogue between the Rodríguez government and an opposition group led by Dinorah Figuera, the last president of the National Assembly elected in 2015. This diplomatic pressure has also contributed to a distancing between the current Venezuelan administration and traditional allies such as Iran and Cuba.