U.S. lifts sanctions on Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez
NPR • • nation
Key Points:
- The U.S. Treasury Department lifted sanctions on Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez, signaling recognition of her as a legitimate authority following the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife by U.S. forces on January 3.
- Rodríguez expressed optimism about improving U.S.-Venezuela relations, hoping the sanctions relief would lead to broader cooperation and the lifting of sanctions on Venezuela itself.
- Previously sanctioned during the Trump administration for undermining Venezuelan democracy, Rodríguez has since engaged with the U.S. on economic reforms, opening Venezuela to private investment and international arbitration.
- The U.S. also eased restrictions on Venezuela's oil sector, allowing the state-owned PDVSA to sell oil directly to U.S. companies and global markets, marking a significant policy shift.
- Despite Maduro's capture, he remains legally recognized as Venezuela's president domestically, with the ruling party's high court declaring his absence temporary and appointing Rodríguez as acting president for up to 90 days, extendable by the National Assembly.
