Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, said she has been invited to visit the United States, signaling a potential diplomatic opening as both countries explore cooperation in the energy sector. Rodríguez made the remarks during an interview with NBC News’ Meet the Press, conducted during the visit of U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright to Caracas.
According to Rodríguez, a trip to Washington would depend on the progress of ongoing discussions. She indicated that any visit would take place once both sides establish a framework for cooperation and outline concrete steps forward.
Rodríguez, who previously served as vice president and oil minister, assumed the role of interim president in early January following the detention of Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by U.S. authorities on drug and weapons charges. The development marked a dramatic shift in Venezuela’s political landscape and intensified international scrutiny.
Despite the change in leadership, Rodríguez reiterated her position that Maduro remains Venezuela’s legitimate president and described both him and Flores as innocent of the charges filed against them. Her comments underscore the complex political environment surrounding the transitional administration.
At the center of current talks is the recovery of Venezuela’s oil industry, once one of the most powerful in the world but severely weakened by years of underinvestment, operational decline, and U.S. sanctions. Rodríguez and Wright are expected to address mechanisms to revive production, attract foreign capital, and reestablish Venezuela as a significant player in global energy markets.
Washington has expressed interest in placing U.S. investors at the forefront of any restructuring process, linking broader economic cooperation to measurable reforms and stability. However, sanctions and legal uncertainties remain key obstacles.
