Story perspectives

U.S. Threatens Force as Venezuela's Energy Deal Sparks Tension

1/29/2026

Center

Rubio Threatens Venezuela

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. is ready to use force to compel Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez to cooperate.
He noted Rodríguez's pledge to open Venezuela's energy sector to U.S. companies and facilitate a $2 billion deal.
Delcy Rodríguez has publicly rejected U.S. interference, saying Venezuela has had enough.
Democrats criticized lack of transparency regarding the operation that captured Nicolás Maduro and questioned the timeline for elections.

Right

Rodriguez Navigates Alliances

United States (U.S.) intelligence reports uncertainty about interim President Delcy Rodriguez severing ties with Iran, China, and Russia after former President Nicolas Maduro's capture.
Critics question retaining Maduro loyalists, given Rodriguez's deep ties to the oil sector.
Rodriguez has aligned with Washington, releasing political prisoners, while signaling frustration with U.S. intervention.
North Korean defector Lee Il-kyu warns Maduro's ousting could heighten Kim Jong Un's fears and prompt security reassessments.

History

Historical Context

The 2019 Venezuelan presidential crisis began when the U.S. recognized Juan Guaidó as interim president, challenging Nicolás Maduro's rule. This followed Maduro's controversial re-election in 2018, deemed illegitimate by many nations. The U.S. imposed sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil exports, which constitute 90% of its revenue, reflecting a long history of U.S. interventions in Latin America aimed at influencing political outcomes.

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Rubio Threatens Venezuela

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. is ready to use force to compel Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez to cooperate.
He noted Rodríguez's pledge to open Venezuela's energy sector to U.S. companies and facilitate a $2 billion deal.
Delcy Rodríguez has publicly rejected U.S. interference, saying Venezuela has had enough.
Democrats criticized lack of transparency regarding the operation that captured Nicolás Maduro and questioned the timeline for elections.

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