Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez on Saturday (Aug 29) sought to calm growing public concern over a sweeping oil agreement with the United States, insisting that Caracas will retain sovereignty over the country’s vast petroleum reserves despite Washington gaining major access to them.The deal gives the United States majority control over 65 billion barrels of Venezuela’s proven reserves, with President Donald Trump hailing it as “the biggest oil deal in world history.”“One thing must be absolutely clear: Venezuela retains ownership and sovereignty over its resources,” Rodriguez said in a televised address on Saturday (Aug 29).She said the agreement was intended to turn “cold, inert” resources lying underground into “a source of social and economic well-being for the people of Venezuela.”Caracas has said the arrangement could attract $100 billion in private investment to revive an oil industry crippled by years of economic turmoil, sanctions and chronic underinvestment. But details of the agreement remain limited, fuelling concerns about what Venezuela may be giving up in return.The unease extends beyond government opponents. “We don’t know who this will benefit – whether it’s Venezuela or (the United States),” security guard Jesus Salazar said. “I have my doubts, but we’ll have to wait and see what happens.”<h2>Can Venezuela’s oil industry recover?</h2>Rodriguez has moved to open Venezuela’s tightly controlled mining and oil sectors to greater private and foreign investment, while Washington has eased restrictions on the country’s oil industry.Production rose nearly 30 per cent between January and July, reaching 1.2 million barrels per day. However, that remains far below the roughly three million barrels Venezuela produced a quarter-century ago.Analysts warn any dramatic recovery will take years.“The increase in production won’t be seen for at least three or four years,” said Oswaldo Felizzola, an engineer and professor at IESA in Caracas, as quoted by AFP.For a country still struggling with widespread poverty and soaring prices, the stakes are high. Rodriguez has promised more than $204 billion in tax revenue, though details remain unclear.Supporters of the deal argue foreign investment could revive an industry that Venezuela can no longer rebuild alone. “It’s undoubtedly better than before,” analyst Elias Ferrer said. “Before, this oil wasn’t being extracted; if no one extracts it, no one pays royalties, and no one profits from it.”

Delcy Rodriguez says Venezuela will retain sovereignty over its oil despite a major US deal, as public doubts grow over who will benefit from $100 billion in planned investment.

Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez on Saturday (Aug 29) sought to calm growing public concern over a sweeping oil agreement with the United States, insisting that Caracas will retain sovereignty over the country’s vast petroleum reserves despite Washington gaining major access to them. The deal gives the United States majority control over 65 billion barrels of Venezuela’s proven reserves, with President Donald Trump hailing it as “the biggest oil deal in world history.” “One thing must be absolutely clear: Venezuela retains ownership and sovereignty over its resources,” Rodriguez said in a televised address on Saturday (Aug 29). She said the agreement was intended to turn “cold, inert” resources lying underground into “a source of social and economic well-being for the people of Venezuela.” Caracas has said the arrangement could attract $100 billion in private investment to revive an oil industry crippled by years of economic turmoil, sanctions and chronic underinvestment. But details of the agreement remain limited, fuelling concerns about what Venezuela may be giving up in return. The unease extends beyond government opponents. “We don’t know who this will benefit – whether it’s Venezuela or (the United States),” security guard Jesus Salazar said. “I have my doubts, but we’ll have to wait and see what happens.” Can Venezuela’s oil industry recover? Rodriguez has moved to open Venezuela’s tightly controlled mining and oil sectors to greater private and foreign investment, while Washington has eased restrictions on the country’s oil industry. Production rose nearly 30 per cent between January and July, reaching 1.2 million barrels per day. However, that remains far below the roughly three million barrels Venezuela produced a quarter-century ago. Analysts warn any dramatic recovery will take years. “The increase in production won’t be seen for at least three or four years,” said Oswaldo Felizzola, an engineer and professor at IESA in Caracas, as quoted by AFP. For a country still struggling with widespread poverty and soaring prices, the stakes are high. Rodriguez has promised more than $204 billion in tax revenue, though details remain unclear. Supporters of the deal argue foreign investment could revive an industry that Venezuela can no longer rebuild alone. “It’s undoubtedly better than before,” analyst Elias Ferrer said. “Before, this oil wasn’t being extracted; if no one extracts it, no one pays royalties, and no one profits from it.”

Delcy Rodriguez says Venezuela will retain sovereignty over its oil despite a major US deal, as public doubts grow over who will benefit from $100 billion in planned investment.

‘Venezuela retains sovereignty’: Delcy Rodriguez defends sweeping US oil deal

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodriguez on Friday (Aug 28) said that the oil agreement announced by US President Donald Trump could generate more than $209 billion in taxes for Venezuela. This comes as Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic oil fields to private operators, particularly US companies.Rodriguez described the arrangement as a major step towards reviving Venezuela's battered energy industry after years of underinvestment, mismanagement, and sanctions.In a statement shared on Telegram, Rodriguez said the agreement would bring more than $100 billion in investment into the country's oil sector. "The agreement will allow for a significant increase in oil production with the participation of private operators," Rodriguez said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-oil-deal-65-billion-barrels-us-control-1787964008355">Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels</a><h2>17 oil fields, 65 billion barrels</h2>According to Rodriguez, the plan covers 17 strategic fields with a proven potential of 65 billion barrels of oil. She said the investments would go towards recovering and modernising Venezuela's hydrocarbons industry and rebuilding strategic infrastructure."This initiative is the result of the strengthening of relations between Venezuela and the United States, and it will facilitate a significant flow of investment aimed at the recovery and reconstruction of strategic infrastructure for the development of our hydrocarbons industry," she said.Rodriguez noted that the project was expected to generate more than $209 billion in taxes for the Venezuelan state. She also linked the deal to broader economic and energy objectives, saying it could support Venezuela's economic growth while contributing to "the energy security of our hemisphere" and greater balance in international markets.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-trade-war-trump-orders-lake-ontario-renamed-lake-america-canada-hits-back-1787878478524">US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America'</a><h2>Trump seeks more Venezuelan oil</h2>Trump announced the agreement on Friday, saying the United States would secure majority control over more than 65 billion barrels of Venezuela's proven oil reserves through a partnership with private companies.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the arrangement as a win for both countries and said it could draw nearly $100 billion in private investment into Venezuela.Rubio also argued that increased Venezuelan production could help bring down gasoline prices in the United States.<h2>Venezuela seeks to revive oil output</h2>Venezuela has the world's largest proven oil reserves, but its production remains well below its potential. The country currently produces around 1.25 million barrels of crude a day.The proposed agreements are expected to be signed next week and would grant new exploration and production rights to several companies, with American firms expected to play a major role.

Venezuela has revealed what it stands to gain from the oil deal with the US. As Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic fields to private operators, the government says the deal could unlock a huge tax windfall.

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodriguez on Friday (Aug 28) said that the oil agreement announced by US President Donald Trump could generate more than $209 billion in taxes for Venezuela. This comes as Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic oil fields to private operators, particularly US companies. Rodriguez described the arrangement as a major step towards reviving Venezuela's battered energy industry after years of underinvestment, mismanagement, and sanctions. In a statement shared on Telegram, Rodriguez said the agreement would bring more than $100 billion in investment into the country's oil sector. "The agreement will allow for a significant increase in oil production with the participation of private operators," Rodriguez said. Also read | Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels 17 oil fields, 65 billion barrels According to Rodriguez, the plan covers 17 strategic fields with a proven potential of 65 billion barrels of oil. She said the investments would go towards recovering and modernising Venezuela's hydrocarbons industry and rebuilding strategic infrastructure. "This initiative is the result of the strengthening of relations between Venezuela and the United States, and it will facilitate a significant flow of investment aimed at the recovery and reconstruction of strategic infrastructure for the development of our hydrocarbons industry," she said. Rodriguez noted that the project was expected to generate more than $209 billion in taxes for the Venezuelan state. She also linked the deal to broader economic and energy objectives, saying it could support Venezuela's economic growth while contributing to "the energy security of our hemisphere" and greater balance in international markets. Also read | US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America' Trump seeks more Venezuelan oil Trump announced the agreement on Friday, saying the United States would secure majority control over more than 65 billion barrels of Venezuela's proven oil reserves through a partnership with private companies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the arrangement as a win for both countries and said it could draw nearly $100 billion in private investment into Venezuela. Rubio also argued that increased Venezuelan production could help bring down gasoline prices in the United States. Venezuela seeks to revive oil output Venezuela has the world's largest proven oil reserves, but its production remains well below its potential. The country currently produces around 1.25 million barrels of crude a day. The proposed agreements are expected to be signed next week and would grant new exploration and production rights to several companies, with American firms expected to play a major role.

Venezuela has revealed what it stands to gain from the oil deal with the US. As Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic fields to private operators, the government says the deal could unlock a huge tax windfall.

$209 billion for Venezuela? Delcy Rodriguez reveals what Caracas stands to gain from Trump's oil deal

US President Donald Trump has said that Venezuela is not yet ready for elections, while praising the country's recent economic progress, particularly its recovering oil industry. Trump credited Venezuela's acting leadership for improving oil production and claimed the country's economy had significantly recovered. However, he said elections would only take place when conditions are right. His remarks come as Venezuela continues to recover from devastating twin earthquakes that have claimed more than 5,398 lives, with thousands still displaced. At the same time, Caracas has announced its decision to permanently withdraw from the International

Trump on Venezuela Elections | Says country 'not ready yet' | US News 

Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Wednesday (July 1) declared seven days of national mourning after last week's devastating twin earthquakes killed at least 2,295 people, injured more than 11,000 and left thousands more unaccounted for.&nbsp;"Venezuela's soul is torn apart by the human losses caused by the devastating earthquakes," Rodriguez wrote on her Telegram account while announcing the period of national mourning from 6:00 pm (2200 GMT) on Wednesday.&nbsp;National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez said the death toll had risen to 2,295, with nearly 13,000 people left homeless. The United Nations estimates that around 50,000 people remain missing.&nbsp;The worst destruction was reported in the coastal city of La Guaira, north of Caracas, where many collapsed buildings have been marked with the letter "D" for "deceased", indicating they had been searched and no signs of life were found.&nbsp;The two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5, flattened entire neighbourhoods in oil-rich Venezuela, where years of economic crisis had already weakened infrastructure and healthcare services. The disaster struck as the country remained in a fragile political transition, six months after the United States ousted leader Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;International rescue teams have joined search efforts across the affected areas, while many residents have voiced frustration over the government's response. As rescue operations continue, thousands remain without shelter, while food and clean drinking water are becoming increasingly scarce.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-tariff-blow-trump-refuses-to-extend-us-trade-pact-with-canada-and-mexico-he-negotiated-in-first-term-1782936096825">After tariff blow, Trump refuses to extend US trade pact with Canada and Mexico he negotiated in first term</a>&nbsp;The World Food Programme on Tuesday appealed for $50 million to provide food assistance to around 500,000 people in Venezuela over the next three months.&nbsp;Health officials have also warned of a growing risk of disease outbreaks. World Health Organisation spokesman Christian Lindmeier said the country's health services were under "extreme pressure."&nbsp;"There's an increased risk now of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases" such as measles and diphtheria, due to low pre-earthquake vaccination coverage, he said.&nbsp;According to a preliminary assessment of satellite data published by NASA, the earthquakes likely damaged or destroyed 58,870 buildings.&nbsp;Amid the devastation, rescuers also found a reason for hope. A three-year-old boy was pulled alive from the rubble in Caracas on Tuesday, a week after the earthquakes struck.&nbsp;The boy's vital signs were good, the Jordanian civil defence said in a statement, adding that local authorities had been informed of the rescue.

The United Nations estimates that around 50,000 people remain missing, while the World Food Programme has appealed for $50 million to provide food assistance to about 500,000 people in Venezuela over the next three months.

Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Wednesday (July 1) declared seven days of national mourning after last week's devastating twin earthquakes killed at least 2,295 people, injured more than 11,000 and left thousands more unaccounted for. "Venezuela's soul is torn apart by the human losses caused by the devastating earthquakes," Rodriguez wrote on her Telegram account while announcing the period of national mourning from 6:00 pm (2200 GMT) on Wednesday. National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez said the death toll had risen to 2,295, with nearly 13,000 people left homeless. The United Nations estimates that around 50,000 people remain missing. The worst destruction was reported in the coastal city of La Guaira, north of Caracas, where many collapsed buildings have been marked with the letter "D" for "deceased", indicating they had been searched and no signs of life were found. The two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5, flattened entire neighbourhoods in oil-rich Venezuela, where years of economic crisis had already weakened infrastructure and healthcare services. The disaster struck as the country remained in a fragile political transition, six months after the United States ousted leader Nicolas Maduro. International rescue teams have joined search efforts across the affected areas, while many residents have voiced frustration over the government's response. As rescue operations continue, thousands remain without shelter, while food and clean drinking water are becoming increasingly scarce. Also Read: After tariff blow, Trump refuses to extend US trade pact with Canada and Mexico he negotiated in first term The World Food Programme on Tuesday appealed for $50 million to provide food assistance to around 500,000 people in Venezuela over the next three months. Health officials have also warned of a growing risk of disease outbreaks. World Health Organisation spokesman Christian Lindmeier said the country's health services were under "extreme pressure." "There's an increased risk now of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases" such as measles and diphtheria, due to low pre-earthquake vaccination coverage, he said. According to a preliminary assessment of satellite data published by NASA, the earthquakes likely damaged or destroyed 58,870 buildings. Amid the devastation, rescuers also found a reason for hope. A three-year-old boy was pulled alive from the rubble in Caracas on Tuesday, a week after the earthquakes struck. The boy's vital signs were good, the Jordanian civil defence said in a statement, adding that local authorities had been informed of the rescue.

The United Nations estimates that around 50,000 people remain missing, while the World Food Programme has appealed for $50 million to provide food assistance to about 500,000 people in Venezuela over the next three months.

Venezuela declares seven days of mourning as earthquake death toll nears 3,000

The death toll from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela five days ago has risen to at least 1,719, National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez said on Monday.Rodriguez said 5,034 people were injured in the earthquakes, while tens of thousands remain missing.&nbsp;The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck on Wednesday evening and were also felt in neighbouring Colombia. They were the deadliest earthquakes to hit Venezuela in more than a century.&nbsp;A magnitude 4.6 aftershock struck shortly after 7 am local time on Monday, according to the US Geological Survey, raising fresh concerns over the safety of hundreds of buildings already weakened by the earlier tremors.&nbsp;Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said 24 countries have sent 521 tonnes of relief supplies, including 86 canine units trained to locate survivors trapped under debris and more than 2,700 search and rescue personnel.&nbsp;The United States also doubled its assistance on Monday, increasing its aid commitment from $150 million to $300 million.&nbsp;Authorities said 774 buildings suffered severe damage in the earthquakes, including 189 structures that completely collapsed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/desperate-acts-of-violence-india-strongly-condemns-pakistan-air-strikes-on-afghanistan-killing-civilians-1782764622490">'Desperate acts of violence': India strongly condemns Pakistan air strikes on Afghanistan killing civilians</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the United Nations announced it will provide 10,000 body bags to Venezuela amid fears that the number of deaths could continue to rise, although officials expressed hope that the final toll would remain below that figure.&nbsp;The twin earthquakes flattened entire neighbourhoods in the coastal state of La Guaira, leaving more than 1,700 people dead and tens of thousands still unaccounted for.&nbsp;Gianluca Rampolla del Tindaro, the UN coordinator for Venezuela, said the number of victims is expected to rise beyond the current official count.&nbsp;"I can give you a proxy indicator. We are procuring, and this is something that has been agreed with the authorities here, 10,000 body bags," Rampolla del Tindaro told a virtual news conference.&nbsp;"That is somehow applying an assumption, and it's very sad, and we truly hope that actually the number is going to be smaller than that," he said.&nbsp;Rampolla del Tindaro also praised the international response, saying 27 countries have deployed more than 2,000 rescuers and personnel along with over 160 search dogs.&nbsp;He said those teams rescued seven people from the rubble on Sunday, four days after the earthquakes struck Venezuela.

The UN will provide 10,000 body bags to Venezuela as fears grow that the death toll from the twin earthquakes, which flattened neighbourhoods in La Guaira and killed more than 1,700 people, could continue to rise.

The death toll from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela five days ago has risen to at least 1,719, National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez said on Monday. Rodriguez said 5,034 people were injured in the earthquakes, while tens of thousands remain missing. The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck on Wednesday evening and were also felt in neighbouring Colombia. They were the deadliest earthquakes to hit Venezuela in more than a century. A magnitude 4.6 aftershock struck shortly after 7 am local time on Monday, according to the US Geological Survey, raising fresh concerns over the safety of hundreds of buildings already weakened by the earlier tremors. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said 24 countries have sent 521 tonnes of relief supplies, including 86 canine units trained to locate survivors trapped under debris and more than 2,700 search and rescue personnel. The United States also doubled its assistance on Monday, increasing its aid commitment from $150 million to $300 million. Authorities said 774 buildings suffered severe damage in the earthquakes, including 189 structures that completely collapsed. Also Read: 'Desperate acts of violence': India strongly condemns Pakistan air strikes on Afghanistan killing civilians Meanwhile, the United Nations announced it will provide 10,000 body bags to Venezuela amid fears that the number of deaths could continue to rise, although officials expressed hope that the final toll would remain below that figure. The twin earthquakes flattened entire neighbourhoods in the coastal state of La Guaira, leaving more than 1,700 people dead and tens of thousands still unaccounted for. Gianluca Rampolla del Tindaro, the UN coordinator for Venezuela, said the number of victims is expected to rise beyond the current official count. "I can give you a proxy indicator. We are procuring, and this is something that has been agreed with the authorities here, 10,000 body bags," Rampolla del Tindaro told a virtual news conference. "That is somehow applying an assumption, and it's very sad, and we truly hope that actually the number is going to be smaller than that," he said. Rampolla del Tindaro also praised the international response, saying 27 countries have deployed more than 2,000 rescuers and personnel along with over 160 search dogs. He said those teams rescued seven people from the rubble on Sunday, four days after the earthquakes struck Venezuela.

The UN will provide 10,000 body bags to Venezuela as fears grow that the death toll from the twin earthquakes, which flattened neighbourhoods in La Guaira and killed more than 1,700 people, could continue to rise.

Venezuela earthquake death toll climbs to 1,719; UN to deliver 10,000 body bags

Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez said on Friday that the death toll from the devastating earthquakes in the country has risen to 589, while 2,980 people have been injured. She also announced the militarisation of La Guaira, the worst-affected province.&nbsp;“We are going to rescue the people who are trapped,” she said, adding, “We are working tirelessly on this task.”&nbsp;Rodríguez said dozens of people have been rescued alive. “It brings us joy that they can embrace their families and loved ones,” she said.“There have been 214 aftershocks so far. This demonstrates and reflects the seismic activity in our territory,” she said, adding that the worst-hit state of La Guaira will be “militarised” to help the emergency response.&nbsp;Rodriguez thanked countries for their assistance, saying foreign rescue teams had been deployed across different affected regions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-pledges-stronger-backing-for-bangladesh-s-brics-sco-ambitions-as-trade-and-connectivity-top-agenda-1782478384233">China pledges stronger backing for Bangladesh’s BRICS, SCO ambitions as trade and connectivity top agenda</a><h2>Govt website lists 50,000 as missing</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, authorities warned that hundreds of people remain trapped or missing. A government website set up to report missing persons had listed around 50,000 unaccounted-for individuals by Friday morning.The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck around 160 kilometres west of Caracas on Wednesday evening during a public holiday. The US Geological Survey has estimated that the death toll could exceed 10,000.Before this disaster, the deadliest earthquake struck Venezuela in 1967, claiming 240 lives.&nbsp;La Guaira, the coastal region north of Caracas, was the worst affected by Wednesday’s twin earthquakes and has been declared a “disaster zone”, with at least 100 buildings collapsed, including high-rise apartment blocks.Residents continued searching for survivors with their bare hands and basic tools amid complaints about the lack of heavy rescue equipment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zero-tolerance-for-any-attempt-to-exploit-sanatan-faith-of-devotees-says-cm-yogi-after-arrests-in-ram-temple-donation-theft-case-1782473006937">‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case</a>&nbsp;The UN said international search and rescue teams from at least 17 countries are travelling to Venezuela to help look for survivors.&nbsp;<h2>Foreign aid, support pour for rescue and relief</h2>&nbsp;International rescue teams started arriving late Thursday. The Dominican Republic was the first to deploy personnel to La Guaira, while Mexico sent 250 rescuers, El Salvador 188, Spain nearly 100, and Colombia dispatched a 63-member rescue team. Switzerland and Germany have also sent rescue crews with search dogs and specialised equipment.&nbsp;The disaster has struck Venezuela, which is already weakened by years of economic crisis, political instability and deteriorating infrastructure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-drop-to-pre-war-level-as-oman-affirms-no-transit-fees-for-crossing-hormuz-1782395148857">Oil prices drop to pre-war level as Oman affirms no transit fees for crossing Hormuz</a>&nbsp;The United Nations' migration agency estimates that nearly seven million people could be affected and has begun supplying emergency shelters and relief materials.The Caracas Stock Exchange remained closed after being converted into an aid collection centre.Despite the widespread destruction, foreign energy companies said operations in Venezuela’s vital oil sector had not suffered major disruptions, with key infrastructure largely spared.&nbsp;<h2>US temporarily lifts sanctions on Venezuela</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department has temporarily removed sanctions on Venezuela. This will enable the Venezuelan government to make temporary transactions for earthquake relief, which would not be possible otherwise due to economic sanctions in place.This exemption will be in place until 23 October, said the New York Times report.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amazon-ceo-meets-pm-modi-says-e-com-giant-to-invest-48bn-in-india-by-2030-expand-ai-cloud-infra-1782387595374">Amazon CEO meets PM Modi, says e-com giant to invest $48bn in India by 2030, expand AI, cloud infra</a>&nbsp;The United States announced $150 million in earthquake assistance after temporarily easing sanctions to facilitate humanitarian aid. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington would deploy rescue teams, while the Pentagon would help support operations at Caracas’ damaged airport.

A website of the Venezuelan government set up to report missing persons had listed around 50,000 unaccounted-for individuals by Friday morning. The US Geological Survey has estimated that the death toll could exceed 10,000.

Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez said on Friday that the death toll from the devastating earthquakes in the country has risen to 589, while 2,980 people have been injured. She also announced the militarisation of La Guaira, the worst-affected province. “We are going to rescue the people who are trapped,” she said, adding, “We are working tirelessly on this task.” Rodríguez said dozens of people have been rescued alive. “It brings us joy that they can embrace their families and loved ones,” she said. “There have been 214 aftershocks so far. This demonstrates and reflects the seismic activity in our territory,” she said, adding that the worst-hit state of La Guaira will be “militarised” to help the emergency response. Rodriguez thanked countries for their assistance, saying foreign rescue teams had been deployed across different affected regions. Also Read: China pledges stronger backing for Bangladesh’s BRICS, SCO ambitions as trade and connectivity top agenda Govt website lists 50,000 as missing Meanwhile, authorities warned that hundreds of people remain trapped or missing. A government website set up to report missing persons had listed around 50,000 unaccounted-for individuals by Friday morning. The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck around 160 kilometres west of Caracas on Wednesday evening during a public holiday. The US Geological Survey has estimated that the death toll could exceed 10,000. Before this disaster, the deadliest earthquake struck Venezuela in 1967, claiming 240 lives. La Guaira, the coastal region north of Caracas, was the worst affected by Wednesday’s twin earthquakes and has been declared a “disaster zone”, with at least 100 buildings collapsed, including high-rise apartment blocks. Residents continued searching for survivors with their bare hands and basic tools amid complaints about the lack of heavy rescue equipment. Also Read: ‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case The UN said international search and rescue teams from at least 17 countries are travelling to Venezuela to help look for survivors. Foreign aid, support pour for rescue and relief International rescue teams started arriving late Thursday. The Dominican Republic was the first to deploy personnel to La Guaira, while Mexico sent 250 rescuers, El Salvador 188, Spain nearly 100, and Colombia dispatched a 63-member rescue team. Switzerland and Germany have also sent rescue crews with search dogs and specialised equipment. The disaster has struck Venezuela, which is already weakened by years of economic crisis, political instability and deteriorating infrastructure. Also Read: Oil prices drop to pre-war level as Oman affirms no transit fees for crossing Hormuz The United Nations' migration agency estimates that nearly seven million people could be affected and has begun supplying emergency shelters and relief materials. The Caracas Stock Exchange remained closed after being converted into an aid collection centre. Despite the widespread destruction, foreign energy companies said operations in Venezuela’s vital oil sector had not suffered major disruptions, with key infrastructure largely spared. US temporarily lifts sanctions on Venezuela Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department has temporarily removed sanctions on Venezuela. This will enable the Venezuelan government to make temporary transactions for earthquake relief, which would not be possible otherwise due to economic sanctions in place. This exemption will be in place until 23 October, said the New York Times report. Also Read: Amazon CEO meets PM Modi, says e-com giant to invest $48bn in India by 2030, expand AI, cloud infra The United States announced $150 million in earthquake assistance after temporarily easing sanctions to facilitate humanitarian aid. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington would deploy rescue teams, while the Pentagon would help support operations at Caracas’ damaged airport.

A website of the Venezuelan government set up to report missing persons had listed around 50,000 unaccounted-for individuals by Friday morning. The US Geological Survey has estimated that the death toll could exceed 10,000.

Venezuela twin quakes toll climbs to 589, thousands missing; US temporarily lifts sanctions on Caracas

Reports suggest that Venezuela’s president has visited an Indian spiritual leader’s ashram, drawing attention to the long-standing spiritual ties between Venezuelan political figures and Indian gurus. The visit is linked to Sathya Sai Baba’s ashram tradition in India, where several Venezuelan leaders and diplomats have reportedly sought spiritual guidance.

Why Did Venezuela's President Visit An Indian Godman's Ashram?

Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodrigues will visit India for the first time since taking office as the President of Venezuela. She has had a long-standing diplomatic relationship with New Delhi and has travelled to the country multiple times in her previous governmental roles. This is her sixth visit to India. Delcy Rodriguez's visit to India will last 5 days from June 3 to June 7, and will hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press briefing on Tuesday.<h2>Venezuelan oil to fulfil Indian energy needs</h2>The visit comes at a time when India, the third largest importer of crude oil, has faced a supply crunch due to the US-Israeli war on Iran. Venezuela has emerged as India's fifth-largest source of crude oil imports in May, supplying over 266,000 barrels a day or roughly 5.3 per cent of total crude imports, according to maritime analytics firm Kpler. While the June arrival is expected to rise over 300,000 barrels a day. India's Reliance Industries has emerged as one of the three largest buyers of Venezuelan ​crude, along with Chevron and Vitol. Indian buyers previously stopped purchasing Venezuelan crude following US sanctions. Now India again resumed purchases in February after more than 10 months, specifically through US-based Chevron and Vitol."As part of the programme, the Venezuelan delegation will visit several sites connected with energy, pharmaceuticals and auto sectors to gain insights into India’s technological and industrial capabilities and to explore opportunities for collaboration," said MEA in a press briefing.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-steve-hilton-5-unique-things-california-governor-candidate-1780468240756">Who is Steve Hilton? 5 things to know about the California governor candidate</a><h2>India had usually been reliant on Gulf oil&nbsp;</h2>Historicall Indian had been reliant on Gulf oil, with imports from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait. In 2022, with the outbreak of the Russian war in Ukraine and Western sanctions on Moscow, India started to aggressively purchase Russian Urals. Russia shattered the Gulf monopoly by supplying discounted crude and rose to the top of the Indian supplier, capturing over 35-40 per cent of the Indian market. However, as the war in West Asia started, and the effective closure of Hormuz for nearly 80-days, India's residual reliance on Gulf Oil became problematic. Further, India's dependence on irregular waivers from the US to purchase Russian crude hurt the policy of economic nationalism and price pragmatism. Though India maintained a strategic autonomy, India's pivot towards Venezuela is, on one hand, reclaiming the old market, and on the other hand, maintaining a symbolic relationship and assisting Washington to stabilise crude oil prices. However, purchasing Venezuelan crude poses a logistical challenge as it takes more than 20-25 days for shipments to arrive via the Atlantic basin, compared to the 5-7 days of oil transport through the Persian Gulf, along with additional shipping and insurance costs.&nbsp;

Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez begins a five-day India visit focused on energy, trade and investment as New Delhi ramps up crude oil imports from Venezuela amid Middle East supply disruptions.

Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodrigues will visit India for the first time since taking office as the President of Venezuela. She has had a long-standing diplomatic relationship with New Delhi and has travelled to the country multiple times in her previous governmental roles. This is her sixth visit to India. Delcy Rodriguez's visit to India will last 5 days from June 3 to June 7, and will hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press briefing on Tuesday. Venezuelan oil to fulfil Indian energy needs The visit comes at a time when India, the third largest importer of crude oil, has faced a supply crunch due to the US-Israeli war on Iran. Venezuela has emerged as India's fifth-largest source of crude oil imports in May, supplying over 266,000 barrels a day or roughly 5.3 per cent of total crude imports, according to maritime analytics firm Kpler. While the June arrival is expected to rise over 300,000 barrels a day. India's Reliance Industries has emerged as one of the three largest buyers of Venezuelan crude, along with Chevron and Vitol. Indian buyers previously stopped purchasing Venezuelan crude following US sanctions. Now India again resumed purchases in February after more than 10 months, specifically through US-based Chevron and Vitol. "As part of the programme, the Venezuelan delegation will visit several sites connected with energy, pharmaceuticals and auto sectors to gain insights into India’s technological and industrial capabilities and to explore opportunities for collaboration," said MEA in a press briefing. Also Read: Who is Steve Hilton? 5 things to know about the California governor candidate India had usually been reliant on Gulf oil Historicall Indian had been reliant on Gulf oil, with imports from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait. In 2022, with the outbreak of the Russian war in Ukraine and Western sanctions on Moscow, India started to aggressively purchase Russian Urals. Russia shattered the Gulf monopoly by supplying discounted crude and rose to the top of the Indian supplier, capturing over 35-40 per cent of the Indian market. However, as the war in West Asia started, and the effective closure of Hormuz for nearly 80-days, India's residual reliance on Gulf Oil became problematic. Further, India's dependence on irregular waivers from the US to purchase Russian crude hurt the policy of economic nationalism and price pragmatism. Though India maintained a strategic autonomy, India's pivot towards Venezuela is, on one hand, reclaiming the old market, and on the other hand, maintaining a symbolic relationship and assisting Washington to stabilise crude oil prices. However, purchasing Venezuelan crude poses a logistical challenge as it takes more than 20-25 days for shipments to arrive via the Atlantic basin, compared to the 5-7 days of oil transport through the Persian Gulf, along with additional shipping and insurance costs.

Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez begins a five-day India visit focused on energy, trade and investment as New Delhi ramps up crude oil imports from Venezuela amid Middle East supply disruptions.

Indian strategic pivot to Venezuelan oil, as Delcy Rodriguez visits New Delhi

Venezuela’s Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has announced the formation of a special commission aimed at overseeing a broad government overhaul. The move is expected to restructure key state institutions and improve administrative efficiency amid ongoing political and economic challenges.


Venezuela's Interim Prez Delcy Rodriguez Forms Commission For Govt Overhaul

In an unusual move, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday (May 21) announced that the Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodriguez will be travelling to India next week to hold discussions on selling oil. The statement highlights the influence of Washington over Caracas and its oil industry following the ouster of former leader Nicolas Maduro. Rubio’s remarks come ahead of his own planned trip to the country starting Saturday. This comes amid a global energy supply crisis due to the Iran war.“We want to sell them as much energy as they’ll buy,” Rubio said. “We also think there’s opportunities with Venezuelan oil. In fact, it’s my understanding that the interim president of Venezuela will be traveling to India next week as well.”“There’s a lot to work on with India. They’re a great ally, a great partner,” he added.Rodriguez took office after the US military bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace. Since then, she has maintained close ties with US President Donald Trump’s administration for cooperating with Washington, including by assisting oil companies. Venezuela is home to world’s largest proven oil reserves.Rodriguez is known to have longstanding ties with India, being a follower of late guru Sathya Sai Baba. Known for her spiritual inclinations rooted in India, she has made several visits to Sathya Sai Baba’s ashram, Prasanthi Nilayam in Andhra Pradesh’s Puttaparthi. She visited the ashram in 2019, 2023 and most recently in October 2024. During her October 2024 trip to India, shortly after the BRICS summit in Kazan, Rodríguez met then Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar in New Delhi before making a personal visit to Puttaparthi with her delegation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez will visit India next week for talks on oil sales, highlighting growing India-Venezuela energy ties.

In an unusual move, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday (May 21) announced that the Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodriguez will be travelling to India next week to hold discussions on selling oil. The statement highlights the influence of Washington over Caracas and its oil industry following the ouster of former leader Nicolas Maduro. Rubio’s remarks come ahead of his own planned trip to the country starting Saturday. This comes amid a global energy supply crisis due to the Iran war. “We want to sell them as much energy as they’ll buy,” Rubio said. “We also think there’s opportunities with Venezuelan oil. In fact, it’s my understanding that the interim president of Venezuela will be traveling to India next week as well.” “There’s a lot to work on with India. They’re a great ally, a great partner,” he added. Rodriguez took office after the US military bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace. Since then, she has maintained close ties with US President Donald Trump’s administration for cooperating with Washington, including by assisting oil companies. Venezuela is home to world’s largest proven oil reserves. Rodriguez is known to have longstanding ties with India, being a follower of late guru Sathya Sai Baba. Known for her spiritual inclinations rooted in India, she has made several visits to Sathya Sai Baba’s ashram, Prasanthi Nilayam in Andhra Pradesh’s Puttaparthi. She visited the ashram in 2019, 2023 and most recently in October 2024. During her October 2024 trip to India, shortly after the BRICS summit in Kazan, Rodríguez met then Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar in New Delhi before making a personal visit to Puttaparthi with her delegation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez will visit India next week for talks on oil sales, amid Iran war.

India to buy oil from Venezuela? Rubio announces Rodriguez’s visit next week

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodrigues said that Venezuela never considered becoming the 51st state of the United States, as Trump has been suggesting following the kidnapping of the then-President Nicolas Maduro. US President Donald Trump said in a phone call with Fox News that he was "seriously" considering making Venezuela the 51st state of the United States, claiming that he is popular within the nation.&nbsp;"Venezuela loves Trump," said Trump.&nbsp;Trump said that he is effectively motivated by the $40 trillion worth of Venezuelan oil reserves. "As the President has said, relations between Venezuela and the United States have been extraordinary. Oil is starting to flow, and large amounts of money, unseen for many years, will soon be helping the great people of Venezuela," said a White House spokesperson. The spokesperson said to Fox News that Trump is the reason for the “revitalisation” of the US-Venezuela relationship and that the “best” is yet to come. He did not clarify the plan of the US President regarding Venezuela. Trump's capture of Venezuela's oil reserve had been instrumental in securing US energy requirements, as West Asia has plunged into war.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-51st-state-wbc-maduro-trial-1773733226366">‘Statehood #51?’: Trump’s sneaky Venezuela remark after WBC victory</a>"That would never have been considered, because if there is one thing we Venezuelan men and women have, it is that we love our independence process, we love our heroes and heroines of independence," said Delcy Rodrigues after a hearing at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. She was at the top court for a centuries-old dispute with Guyana over an oil-rich region, in her first trip outside the Caribbean since assuming power.Back in March, following Venezuela's success in the baseball World Cup, Trump made a post on the Truth Social platform, "Good things are happening to Venezuela lately! I wonder what this magic is all about? STATEHOOD, #51, ANYONE?" The US has maintained effective control over Venezuelan oil through a “joint venture” model established following a 2026 military intervention. The export of Venezuelan sour crudes surged to 1.23 million bpd in April 2026, marking the strongest performance since 2018. While Venezuela maintains domestic production capacity, the US Treasury Department continues to control the funds and disburse using its own discretion.&nbsp;

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez rejected Donald Trump’s remarks about making Venezuela the 51st US state, saying Venezuelans “love independence” amid growing US control over Venezuelan oil.

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodrigues said that Venezuela never considered becoming the 51st state of the United States, as Trump has been suggesting following the kidnapping of the then-President Nicolas Maduro. US President Donald Trump said in a phone call with Fox News that he was "seriously" considering making Venezuela the 51st state of the United States, claiming that he is popular within the nation. "Venezuela loves Trump," said Trump. Trump said that he is effectively motivated by the $40 trillion worth of Venezuelan oil reserves. "As the President has said, relations between Venezuela and the United States have been extraordinary. Oil is starting to flow, and large amounts of money, unseen for many years, will soon be helping the great people of Venezuela," said a White House spokesperson. The spokesperson said to Fox News that Trump is the reason for the “revitalisation” of the US-Venezuela relationship and that the “best” is yet to come. He did not clarify the plan of the US President regarding Venezuela. Trump's capture of Venezuela's oil reserve had been instrumental in securing US energy requirements, as West Asia has plunged into war. Also Read: ‘Statehood #51?’: Trump’s sneaky Venezuela remark after WBC victory "That would never have been considered, because if there is one thing we Venezuelan men and women have, it is that we love our independence process, we love our heroes and heroines of independence," said Delcy Rodrigues after a hearing at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. She was at the top court for a centuries-old dispute with Guyana over an oil-rich region, in her first trip outside the Caribbean since assuming power. Back in March, following Venezuela's success in the baseball World Cup, Trump made a post on the Truth Social platform, "Good things are happening to Venezuela lately! I wonder what this magic is all about? STATEHOOD, #51, ANYONE?" The US has maintained effective control over Venezuelan oil through a “joint venture” model established following a 2026 military intervention. The export of Venezuelan sour crudes surged to 1.23 million bpd in April 2026, marking the strongest performance since 2018. While Venezuela maintains domestic production capacity, the US Treasury Department continues to control the funds and disburse using its own discretion.

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez rejected Donald Trump’s remarks about making Venezuela the 51st US state, saying Venezuelans “love independence” amid growing US control over Venezuelan oil.

Trump says he is ‘seriously considering’ making Venezuela 51st US state; Delcy Rodríguez rejects proposal

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez is heading to The Hague for a land dispute case with Guyana at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The trip to the Netherlands announced on Saturday will be the first time she’s left home since the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by US forces in January.


Venezuela: Delcy Rodriguez Announces Trip to ICJ to Raise Essequibo Dispute 

In a major policy shift, the United States has eased sanctions on Venezuela’s central bank and key financial institutions, allowing them to reconnect with the global financial system. The move is expected to boost Venezuela’s struggling economy by enabling transactions, remittances, and access to international banking. While not a complete rollback, the decision signals a gradual thaw in ties and a push to stabilise the country’s economic situation.


US Eases Sanctions On Venezuela Central Bank

The United States on Wednesday (April 1) lifted sanctions on Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed leadership after Washington removed her predecessor, Nicolas Maduro, in a January military operation. Her name was removed from the US Treasury’s sanctions list, signaling a major shift in Washington’s approach and recognition of her authority.Rodríguez welcomed the move, describing it as part of improving ties between the two nations.&nbsp;"We trust that this progress will allow for the lifting of the sanctions currently in force against our country, and make it possible to build and guarantee an effective binational cooperation agenda for the benefit of our peoples," she added.Relations between Washington and Caracas have improved since Maduro’s ouster, with Rodríguez working closely with Donald Trump’s administration, including opening Venezuela’s energy sector to US investment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-doubles-a-10-attack-planes-in-middle-east-as-us-intensifies-operations-report-1775077839387">Pentagon doubles A-10 attack planes in Middle East as US intensifies operations: Report</a>&nbsp;Rodriguez, who previously served as vice president under Maduro, had been sanctioned along with several key officials, including Vladimir Padrino López and Diosdado Cabello, for their roles in the former government. She dismissed Padrino Lopez in mid-March but continues to balance pressure from Washington with expectations from domestic allies. Cabello, who remains in office, is considered one of her main supporters.&nbsp;In a sign of improving diplomatic ties, the US Embassy in Caracas resumed operations earlier this week after a seven-year closure. The shift follows a US military operation on January 3 that captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas. They were taken to New York to face drug trafficking charges, which they deny. According to Venezuelan authorities, the operation resulted in around 100 deaths.&nbsp;The United States closed its embassy in Caracas in March 2019, shortly after it, along with several Western and Latin American allies, declared Nicolás Maduro illegitimate following an election widely criticized for serious irregularities.

US lifts sanctions on Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez

The United States on Wednesday (April 1) lifted sanctions on Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed leadership after Washington removed her predecessor, Nicolas Maduro, in a January military operation. Her name was removed from the US Treasury’s sanctions list, signaling a major shift in Washington’s approach and recognition of her authority. Rodríguez welcomed the move, describing it as part of improving ties between the two nations. "We trust that this progress will allow for the lifting of the sanctions currently in force against our country, and make it possible to build and guarantee an effective binational cooperation agenda for the benefit of our peoples," she added. Relations between Washington and Caracas have improved since Maduro’s ouster, with Rodríguez working closely with Donald Trump’s administration, including opening Venezuela’s energy sector to US investment. Also Read: Pentagon doubles A-10 attack planes in Middle East as US intensifies operations: Report Rodriguez, who previously served as vice president under Maduro, had been sanctioned along with several key officials, including Vladimir Padrino López and Diosdado Cabello, for their roles in the former government. She dismissed Padrino Lopez in mid-March but continues to balance pressure from Washington with expectations from domestic allies. Cabello, who remains in office, is considered one of her main supporters. In a sign of improving diplomatic ties, the US Embassy in Caracas resumed operations earlier this week after a seven-year closure. The shift follows a US military operation on January 3 that captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas. They were taken to New York to face drug trafficking charges, which they deny. According to Venezuelan authorities, the operation resulted in around 100 deaths. The United States closed its embassy in Caracas in March 2019, shortly after it, along with several Western and Latin American allies, declared Nicolás Maduro illegitimate following an election widely criticized for serious irregularities.

US lifts sanctions on Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez, signaling warmer ties after Nicolas Maduro’s ouster and renewed diplomatic engagement

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodriguez said on Wednesday that General Gustavo Gonzalez Lopez will take over as defense minister from General Vladimir Padrino, a long-time powerbroker ​close to ousted President Nicolas Maduro.
The change is the most important yet in Rodriguez's cabinet and marks the demotion of a general who controlled ‌Venezuela's sprawling military for 11 years under Maduro.

Venezuela Overhauls Military Leadership, Intelligence Chief Named Defence Minister 

Venezuelan interim leader Delcy Rodríguez has called for an end to punitive sanctions and a U.S. blockade, urging US President Donald Trump to lift economic restrictions on Venezuela. Rodríguez said these measures have harmed Venezuela’s economy and people and emphasized the need for renewed dialogue and cooperation between Caracas and Washington as relations shift following recent political changes.


Venezuelan Leader Calls for End to Punitive Sanctions |Rodriguez Urges Trump to Lift Sanctions

Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez has appointed key cabinet members and met with U.S. envoy Laura Dogu in Caracas, marking a step toward restoring diplomatic relations with Washington and advancing discussions on transition, stabilization, and cooperation after the ouster of Nicolás Maduro.


Venezuela’s Rodriguez Appoints New Cabinet, Meets US Envoy as Diplomatic Ties Rebuild 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez in a key diplomatic exchange, where both leaders “agreed to further deepen and expand our bilateral partnership in all areas, with a shared vision of taking India-Venezuela relations to new heights in the years ahead”. The call underlined a commitment to strengthen cooperation across trade, energy and strategic ties, reflecting growing global dynamics in energy and commerce.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Spoke with Acting President of Venezuela, Ms. Delcy Rodríguez. We agreed to further deepen and expand our bilateral partnership in all areas, with a shared vision of taking India-Venezuela relations to new heights in the years ahead. <a href="https://twitter.com/delcyrodriguezv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@delcyrodriguezv</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2017258593134023092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The talk between the two leaders follows the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro earlier this month. On January 4, India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded to the developments in Venezuela, describing the situation as a matter of “deep concern” and saying that it was being closely monitored. In its statement, India reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of the Venezuelan people, urging all parties to resolve differences peacefully through dialogue to ensure regional stability. The ministry also noted that the Indian Embassy in Caracas remains in contact with members of the Indian community and continues to extend all possible assistance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-cnn-journalist-don-lemon-arrested-over-minnesota-church-protest-tied-to-anti-ice-demonstration-1769782970857">Former CNN journalist Don Lemon arrested over Minnesota church protest tied to anti-ICE demonstration</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Venezuela’s military and police forces have publicly affirmed their allegiance to interim President Delcy Rodriguez, strengthening her grip on power following Maduro’s dramatic removal, according to a report by Al Jazeera. The declaration of loyalty took place on January 28 at the Bolivarian Army’s Military Academy in Caracas, where senior defense and security officials gathered in support of the acting president.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/usa-trump-files-10-billion-lawsuit-against-irs-and-us-treasury-department-wion-1769783740449/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/usa-trump-files-10-billion-lawsuit-against-irs-and-us-treasury-department-wion-1769783740449/embed</a>&nbsp;During the ceremony, Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino pledged “absolute loyalty and subordination” to Rodríguez and presented her with symbolic military insignia, signaling the armed forces’ recognition of her role as commander-in-chief. Rodríguez assumed office after the United States military detained Maduro and his wife earlier this month. Since then, she has moved to consolidate authority while navigating domestic divisions and international pressures. Her early actions include releasing political prisoners detained under Maduro’s administration and attempting to recalibrate Venezuela’s relations with global stakeholders.

PM Narendra Modi holds talks with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez, both agree to deepen bilateral ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez in a key diplomatic exchange, where both leaders “agreed to further deepen and expand our bilateral partnership in all areas, with a shared vision of taking India-Venezuela relations to new heights in the years ahead”. The call underlined a commitment to strengthen cooperation across trade, energy and strategic ties, reflecting growing global dynamics in energy and commerce.

Modi and Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez agree to deepen cooperation and expand the India-Venezuela partnership across all areas

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted "decent progress" with Venezuela's interim leader Rodríguez, while opposition figure María Corina Machado branded the prior Maduro regime "criminals" amid stabilization efforts post-abduction.


Venezuela's Army and Police Pledge Loyalty to Interim Leader Delcy Rodriguez

President Trump said the U.S. has taken the Venezuela oil aboard seven recently-seized tankers — but the location of the ships remains a mystery.

“I’m not allowed to tell you,” the president told The Post in an Oval Office interview on Friday. “But let’s put it this way, they don’t have any oil. We take the oil.”

Delcy Rodriguez faces Washington pressure over prisoner release

Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodriguez said on Sunday (Jan 25) that she had “enough” orders from Washington in a defiant statement amid US President Donald Trump’s pressure since the American forces captured Nicolas Maduro and bombed Caracas. This comes as Trump seeks to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuelan oil.“Enough orders from Washington on politicians in Venezuela. Let Venezuelan politics resolve our differences and internal conflicts. Enough of foreign powers,” Rodriguez said in an address to oil workers in the eastern state of Anzoategui.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes as Trump seeks to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuelan oil.

Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodriguez said on Sunday (Jan 25) that she had “enough” orders from Washington in a defiant statement amid US President Donald Trump’s pressure since the American forces captured Nicolas Maduro and bombed Caracas. This comes as Trump seeks to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuelan oil. “Enough orders from Washington on politicians in Venezuela. Let Venezuelan politics resolve our differences and internal conflicts. Enough of foreign powers,” Rodriguez said in an address to oil workers in the eastern state of Anzoategui.

This comes as Trump seeks to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuelan oil.

‘Enough orders from Washington’: Rodriguez says as Trump seeks control over Venezuelan oil after Maduro’s capture

Before the US military snatched Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, earlier this month, Delcy Rodríguez and her powerful brother pledged to cooperate with the Trump administration. 


Report: Delcy Rodriguez Talks to US Before Maduro Ops | Qatar Channel Used for Talks |

U.S. intelligence scrutiny over Venezuela is intensifying as reports say interim President Delcy Rodríguez has been on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s radar for years. Watch for more on this!


US-Venezuela tensions: Venezuelan interim president on US radar?

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has slammed the United States and said that all the ‘false’ claims about drugs, democracy, and human rights were just excuses for ‘oil’. In her address to the Venezuelan Parliament, Rodriguez said the country is open to energy relations where all parties benefit and where economic cooperation is clearly defined in commercial contracts. These remarks of Rodriguez gain significance as they came after Trump said in an interview that the US is receiving full cooperation from Venezuela’s regime and will control the country and its vast oil reserves for years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump said that Caracas was giving Washington “everything that we feel is necessary” and the US would remain a political overlord there for an indefinite period.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez: Venezuela is an energy powerhouse, and that reality has brought serious challenges. Claims about drugs, democracy, and human rights have been used as excuses for one real goal: control of our oil. <a href="https://t.co/sQ1ABleGCB">pic.twitter.com/sQ1ABleGCB</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/2009246050251362788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reza-pahlavi-urges-iranians-to-continue-protests-warns-tehran-may-cut-internet-1767871076570">Reza Pahlavi urges Iranians to continue protests, warns Tehran may cut internet</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a video that is going viral, Rodriguez said, “We are an energy powerhouse, we truly are. It has brought us tremendous problems, because you all know that the energy greed of the North wants resource of our country. And we have denounced it all, the falsehoods about drug trafficking, democracy, and human rights. They were the excuses because what has always been present is the (threat) that Venezuela’s oil must be handed over to the global North.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-will-take-all-the-oil-stuck-in-venezuela-and-sell-it-in-market-at-market-rates-marco-rubio-1767806398832">‘US will take all the oil stuck in Venezuela and sell it in market, at market rates’: Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;Rodríguez added that her government is open to energy partnerships and commercial agreements with other nations, highlighting the country’s vast oil and gas reserves and willingness to work within international law.“And here we are, our stance has been very clear. Venezuela is open to energy relations where all parties benefit, where economic cooperation is clearly defined in commercial contracts. This is our stance as it the diversity of our energy relations,” she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-to-buy-greenland-not-seize-it-marco-rubio-tells-us-lawmakers-1767810822681">‘Trump wants to buy Greenland, not seize it,’ Marco Rubio tells US lawmakers</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Venezuela’s interim president defended plans to open up her country’s oil market to Washington.&nbsp;Rodríguez said on Wednesday that the US attack to remove her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, had put a “stain” on the countries’ relations, but that it was “not unusual or irregular” to trade with the US, adding that Venezuela was “open to energy relations where all parties benefit”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-us-demand-for-venezuela-oil-exclusively-calls-it-typical-bullying-1767794505500">China slams US demand for Venezuela oil exclusively, calls it ‘typical bullying’</a>&nbsp;The US seized two sanctioned tankers on Wednesday and announced it would manage all sales of Venezuela’s future crude production and oversee the sale of the country’s petroleum worldwide.&nbsp;She further announced an upcoming bill aimed at ensuring stability and called on all political forces to work together to address internal divisions. "Extremist or fascist social, political, and economic expressions cannot be allowed, because they have led to very dangerous situations for the life of this Republic. That is why we must have programs for peace and national coexistence.”

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, said that her government is open to energy partnerships and commercial agreements with other nations, highlighting the country’s vast oil and gas reserves and willingness to work within international law.

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has slammed the United States and said that all the ‘false’ claims about drugs, democracy, and human rights were just excuses for ‘oil’. In her address to the Venezuelan Parliament, Rodriguez said the country is open to energy relations where all parties benefit and where economic cooperation is clearly defined in commercial contracts. These remarks of Rodriguez gain significance as they came after Trump said in an interview that the US is receiving full cooperation from Venezuela’s regime and will control the country and its vast oil reserves for years. Trump said that Caracas was giving Washington “everything that we feel is necessary” and the US would remain a political overlord there for an indefinite period.

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, said that her government is open to energy partnerships and commercial agreements with other nations, highlighting the country’s vast oil and gas reserves and willingness to work within international law.

‘It’s the energy greed of North’: Venezuela’s interim president slams US for drugs, democracy falsehoods

Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Tuesday (Jan 6) pushed back hard against claims that her country was now being run from Washington, even as US President Donald Trump declared that Caracas would soon hand over tens of millions of barrels of oil to the United States.<h2>No foreign agent</h2>Speaking just three days after US special forces captured her predecessor, Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a surprise raid, Rodriguez said Venezuela remained firmly in Venezuelan hands."The government of Venezuela is in charge in our country, and no one else," she insisted. "There is no foreign agent governing Venezuela."Her remarks came hours after Trump said Washington was effectively "in charge" of the crisis-hit nation and that cooperation with Rodriguez would depend on access to Venezuela's vast oil reserves.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-trolls-allies-and-rivals-alike-with-donroe-doctrine-cartoon-after-maduro-capture-1767691813384">Trump trolls allies and rivals alike with 'Donroe Doctrine' cartoon after Maduro capture</a><h2>Venezuela to give the US millions of barrels of oil?</h2>In a late-night post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Rodriguez would be turning over "between 30 and 50 MILLION Barrels of High Quality, Sanctioned Oil" to the US."This oil will be sold at its market price, and that money will be controlled by me", Trump wrote, adding that Energy Secretary Chris Wright had been instructed to execute the plan immediately.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-swears-in-delcy-rodriguez-as-acting-president-days-after-maduro-abduction-1767674124349">Who's Delcy Rodriguez? Maduro's second-in-command sworn in as acting president</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">On it Mr. President. You have my attention to this matter. <a href="https://t.co/nrJPfzsQUK">https://t.co/nrJPfzsQUK</a>&mdash; Secretary Chris Wright (@SecretaryWright) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecretaryWright/status/2008699295873085512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Rodriguez pro US or not?</h2>Rodriguez's tone has shifted repeatedly since Maduro's removal. At times, she has signalled a willingness to cooperate with Washington. At others, she has leaned into defiance."We are a people that does not surrender, we are a people that does not give up," she said, announcing seven days of mourning for 'martyrs' killed in the US strikes.Venezuela's military has confirmed the deaths of 23 troops, including five generals. Cuba, a close ally, said 32 of its military personnel were also killed. Civilian casualty figures remain unclear. Attorney General Tarek William Saab said "dozens" died without offering details.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-crisis-rodriguez-faces-opposition-backlash-after-maduro-s-capture-in-venezuela-1767700273145/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-crisis-rodriguez-faces-opposition-backlash-after-maduro-s-capture-in-venezuela-1767700273145/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez says the country is not being run from Washington, rejecting Donald Trump’s claim that the US now controls Caracas. Meanwhile, Trump said Venezuela would soon hand over tens of millions of barrels of oil to the US.

Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Tuesday (Jan 6) pushed back hard against claims that her country was now being run from Washington, even as US President Donald Trump declared that Caracas would soon hand over tens of millions of barrels of oil to the United States. No foreign agent Speaking just three days after US special forces captured her predecessor, Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a surprise raid, Rodriguez said Venezuela remained firmly in Venezuelan hands. "The government of Venezuela is in charge in our country, and no one else," she insisted. "There is no foreign agent governing Venezuela." Her remarks came hours after Trump said Washington was effectively "in charge" of the crisis-hit nation and that cooperation with Rodriguez would depend on access to Venezuela's vast oil reserves. Also read | Trump trolls allies and rivals alike with 'Donroe Doctrine' cartoon after Maduro capture Venezuela to give the US millions of barrels of oil? In a late-night post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Rodriguez would be turning over "between 30 and 50 MILLION Barrels of High Quality, Sanctioned Oil" to the US. "This oil will be sold at its market price, and that money will be controlled by me", Trump wrote, adding that Energy Secretary Chris Wright had been instructed to execute the plan immediately. Also read | Who's Delcy Rodriguez? Maduro's second-in-command sworn in as acting president

Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez says the country is not being run from Washington, rejecting Donald Trump’s claim that the US now controls Caracas. Meanwhile, Trump said Venezuela would soon hand over tens of millions of barrels of oil to the US.

Trump claims Venezuela will hand over 30 to 50 million barrels of oil, Rodriguez insists 'no foreign power' running country

As Delcy Rodriguez takes over as Venezuela’s acting president after Nicolas Maduro’s capture, attention has turned to her long-standing devotion to Indian spiritual guru Sathya Sai Baba, marked by repeated visits to his Puttaparthi ashram and deep spiritual ties between Venezuela and India.

As Delcy Rodriguez takes over as Venezuela’s acting president after Nicolas Maduro’s capture, attention has turned to her long-standing devotion to Indian spiritual guru Sathya Sai Baba, marked by repeated visits to his Puttaparthi ashram and deep spiritual ties between Venezuela and India.

In Pics | Delcy Rodriguez followed Sathya Sai Baba – After Maduro, Venezuelan interim leader’s ties to Indian spiritual guru emerge

Delcy Rodriguez, on Monday (Jan 5) was sworn in as the interim president of Venezuela, two days after US forces abducted President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores to face trial in New York. Rodriguez was sworn in by the Venezuelan parliament at a ceremony in the National Assembly. The interim president, who has previously indicated that she will cooperate with Washington, told lawmakers she would do so "in the name of all Venezuelans." Following Maduro's capture by US forces, the US Supreme Court on Saturday (Jan 3) ordered Rodriguez to assume the presidency "in an acting capacity." A day later, on Sunday, the nation's military also voiced its support for her.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunfire-erupts-near-venezuela-presidential-palace-days-after-nicolas-maduro-capture-1767663847877">Gunfire erupts near Venezuela presidential palace days after Nicolas Maduro capture</a><h2>Maduro, hold on</h2>Monsay's parliamentary session opened with lawmakers chanting "Let's go Nico!" a slogan of Maduro's presidential campaign ahead of the 2024 elections. The Parliament denounced Maduro and Flores's abduction by the US, while vowing support for his stand-in, Rodriguez.&nbsp;Meanwhile, even as she reiterated that she would cooperate with the US, Rodriguez said she was "in pain over the kidnapping of our heroes, the hostages in the United States". Outside the legislature, citizens gathered by the thousands, chanting, "Maduro, hold on: Venezuela is rising!"&nbsp;The Venezuelan parliament also reelected Delcy Rodriguez's brother, Jorge Rodriguez, as parliament speaker.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-s-ominous-warning-before-us-grabbed-venezuela-president-nicolas-maduro-and-his-wife-be-smart-or-else-1767434160610">Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else...</a><h2>Trump: Prosecutor, Judge, Policeman?</h2>Senior lawmaker Fernando Soto Rojas, addressing lawmakers, said Trump, who "claims to be the prosecutor, the judge, and the policeman of the world," will not succeed. "We say: you will not succeed. And we will ultimately deploy all our solidarity so that our legitimate president, Nicolas Maduro, returns victorious to Miraflores (presidential palace)," he said.<h2>Who is Delcy Rodriguez?</h2>Delcy Rodriguez, the now-acting president of Venezuela, was Nicolas Maduro's Vice-President. The 56-year-old previously also served as Maduro's oil minister. She is a leading figure of Chavismo, the political movement founded by Chávez and led by Maduro since Chávez died in 2013. Delcy Rodriguez is the daughter of Jorge Antonio Rodríguez, who was arrested in 1976 for his alleged involvement in the abduction of William Niehous, an American businessman. He died in police custody.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who ordered Maduro's capture, praised Rodriguez, saying that he believes she is "essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again." However, he ominously warned, "If she doesn't do what's right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro".

Venezuela has sworn in Delcy Rodriguez as interim president days after the US seized Nicolas Maduro. Backed by the military and ordered into office by a US court, Rodriguez promises cooperation with Washington.

Delcy Rodriguez, on Monday (Jan 5) was sworn in as the interim president of Venezuela, two days after US forces abducted President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores to face trial in New York. Rodriguez was sworn in by the Venezuelan parliament at a ceremony in the National Assembly. The interim president, who has previously indicated that she will cooperate with Washington, told lawmakers she would do so "in the name of all Venezuelans." Following Maduro's capture by US forces, the US Supreme Court on Saturday (Jan 3) ordered Rodriguez to assume the presidency "in an acting capacity." A day later, on Sunday, the nation's military also voiced its support for her. Also read | Gunfire erupts near Venezuela presidential palace days after Nicolas Maduro capture Maduro, hold on Monsay's parliamentary session opened with lawmakers chanting "Let's go Nico!" a slogan of Maduro's presidential campaign ahead of the 2024 elections. The Parliament denounced Maduro and Flores's abduction by the US, while vowing support for his stand-in, Rodriguez. Meanwhile, even as she reiterated that she would cooperate with the US, Rodriguez said she was "in pain over the kidnapping of our heroes, the hostages in the United States". Outside the legislature, citizens gathered by the thousands, chanting, "Maduro, hold on: Venezuela is rising!" The Venezuelan parliament also reelected Delcy Rodriguez's brother, Jorge Rodriguez, as parliament speaker. Also read | Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else... Trump: Prosecutor, Judge, Policeman? Senior lawmaker Fernando Soto Rojas, addressing lawmakers, said Trump, who "claims to be the prosecutor, the judge, and the policeman of the world," will not succeed. "We say: you will not succeed. And we will ultimately deploy all our solidarity so that our legitimate president, Nicolas Maduro, returns victorious to Miraflores (presidential palace)," he said. Who is Delcy Rodriguez? Delcy Rodriguez, the now-acting president of Venezuela, was Nicolas Maduro's Vice-President. The 56-year-old previously also served as Maduro's oil minister. She is a leading figure of Chavismo, the political movement founded by Chávez and led by Maduro since Chávez died in 2013. Delcy Rodriguez is the daughter of Jorge Antonio Rodríguez, who was arrested in 1976 for his alleged involvement in the abduction of William Niehous, an American businessman. He died in police custody. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who ordered Maduro's capture, praised Rodriguez, saying that he believes she is "essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again." However, he ominously warned, "If she doesn't do what's right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro".

Venezuela has sworn in Delcy Rodriguez as interim president, days after the US seized Nicolas Maduro. Backed by the military and ordered into office by a US court, Rodriguez promises cooperation with Washington.

Who is Delcy Rodriguez? Maduro's second-in-command sworn in as Venezuela's acting president

The latest terrible disaster caused by excessive rains in central Venezuela, left at least 22 people dead and more than 50 missing after a river overflowed, officials said Sunday.&nbsp;

Venezuela Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said in a televised address that the rain on Saturday night damaged businesses and agriculture by sweeping massive tree trunks and debris from the mountains into the village of Tejerias, 40 miles southwest of Caracas.&nbsp;

Rodriguez stated that finding individuals still buried in the town's mud and rocks were of the utmost importance and that rescue workers and the military were also searching the riverbanks for survivors.&nbsp;

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WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea says recent missile tests were 'tactical nuclear' drills&nbsp;

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Authorities in charge of search and rescue said that El Pato, one of the flooded rivers, washed away a number of residences, businesses, and a slaughterhouse.&nbsp;

A resident, whose brother is missing, told the news agency Reuters: "What happened is the river overflowed and there are people we haven’t found trapped in there."&nbsp;

"We need help, please help rescue people because we do not know if people are buried. I have a missing brother, we need support. It is not only my pain, it is the pain of all the people who are here," the resident added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-believes-world-war-iii-is-a-possibility-blames-stupid-people-for-russia-ukraine-conflict-escalation-523884">Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation</a>&nbsp;

In a tweet sent on Sunday, Carlos Perez, the deputy minister for the nation's civil protection system, stated that 1000 officers were searching the region for victims.&nbsp;

The deaths bring the total killed in recent weeks to at least 40 as a result of severe rains brought on by the La Nina weather trend, which has caused Venezuela to experience flooding and landslides, to at least 40.&nbsp;

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The latest terrible disaster caused by excessive rains in central Venezuela, left at least 22 people dead and more than 50 missing after a river overflowed, officials said Sunday.

The latest terrible disaster caused by excessive rains in central Venezuela, left at least 22 people dead and more than 50 missing after a river overflowed, officials said Sunday. Venezuela Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said in a televised address that the rain on Saturday night damaged businesses and agriculture by sweeping massive tree trunks and debris from the mountains into the village of Tejerias, 40 miles southwest of Caracas. Rodriguez stated that finding individuals still buried in the town's mud and rocks were of the utmost importance and that rescue workers and the military were also searching the riverbanks for survivors. ALSO READ | North Korea's recent missile tests include 'tactical nuclear' drills, overseen by Kim WATCH | North Korea says recent missile tests were 'tactical nuclear' drills × Authorities in charge of search and rescue said that El Pato, one of the flooded rivers, washed away a number of residences, businesses, and a slaughterhouse. A resident, whose brother is missing, told the news agency Reuters: "What happened is the river overflowed and there are people we haven’t found trapped in there." "We need help, please help rescue people because we do not know if people are buried. I have a missing brother, we need support. It is not only my pain, it is the pain of all the people who are here," the resident added. ALSO READ | Trump believes 'World War III' is a possibility, blames 'stupid people' for Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation In a tweet sent on Sunday, Carlos Perez, the deputy minister for the nation's civil protection system, stated that 1000 officers were searching the region for victims. The deaths bring the total killed in recent weeks to at least 40 as a result of severe rains brought on by the La Nina weather trend, which has caused Venezuela to experience flooding and landslides, to at least 40. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Venezuela landslide: At least 22 dead, more than 50 missing after river overflowed

The provisions of a humanitarian aid initiated by Washington is a “big lie”, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said on Saturday (local time), adding that such moves indirectly reflected on the United States’ intention to topple President Nicolas Maduro from power.

In an interview with the Russian Times, the Venezuelan Vice President said, “This [humanitarian assistance] is a big lie.”

Addressing the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in the country, Rodriguez added that Venezuela’s social “wounds” resulted due to the economic “blockade” exerted by the US. In order to put an end to the crisis, the incumbent government of Venezuela needs to enter into a dialogue with the Opposition, a move which is impeded by Donald Trump-led US government, the Vice President added to her statement.

“We say: ‘yes to dialogue’ and ‘no to war’,” Rodriguez said, adding that the South American nation has been facing “total political and ideological rejection” by the US and its allies (over the issue) including the member nations of the European Union (EU), Canada, Colombia and many others.

Rodriguez said that humanitarian aid is just an excuse through which the US wants to enter into Venezuela and further create situations of a coup. She also accused the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-challenging-maduro-through-humanitarian-aid-195434">Opposition led by Juan Guaido</a>, who announced himself as the interim President of the country last month, to be acting upon the orders of Washington.

“Washington believes that [Venezuelan President] Nicolas Maduro should go. Washington’s response is its distorted doctrine of regime change [in] democratic nations that do not like it when someone twists their arms and forcibly interferes into their internal affairs,” Rodriguez explained.

The Vice President noted that the US is creating a “false positive” impression about its own policies against Caracas, which by no means requires any help from Washington, despite reeling from social and economic problems.

Recently, the Venezuelan army had barricaded the Tienditas international bridge on the border with Colombia and blocked trucks and tankers carrying aid from entering into the country.

The remarks by the Venezuelan Vice President came after Guaido told AFP last week that he could “authorize” a foreign military intervention into the country to topple President Maduro.

According to reports, President Maduro, many times since the crisis began in January has called for dialogue with the Opposition but was turned down repeatedly.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Guaido has been recognised as the legitimate Head of the State by the US and the EU.&nbsp;

The provisions of a humanitarian aid initiated by Washington is a “big lie”, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said on Saturday (local time), adding that such moves indirectly reflected on the United States’ intention to topple President Nicolas Maduro from power.

The provisions of a humanitarian aid initiated by Washington is a “big lie”, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said on Saturday (local time), adding that such moves indirectly reflected on the United States’ intention to topple President Nicolas Maduro from power. In an interview with the Russian Times, the Venezuelan Vice President said, “This [humanitarian assistance] is a big lie.” Addressing the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in the country, Rodriguez added that Venezuela’s social “wounds” resulted due to the economic “blockade” exerted by the US. In order to put an end to the crisis, the incumbent government of Venezuela needs to enter into a dialogue with the Opposition, a move which is impeded by Donald Trump-led US government, the Vice President added to her statement. “We say: ‘yes to dialogue’ and ‘no to war’,” Rodriguez said, adding that the South American nation has been facing “total political and ideological rejection” by the US and its allies (over the issue) including the member nations of the European Union (EU), Canada, Colombia and many others. Rodriguez said that humanitarian aid is just an excuse through which the US wants to enter into Venezuela and further create situations of a coup. She also accused the Opposition led by Juan Guaido, who announced himself as the interim President of the country last month, to be acting upon the orders of Washington. “Washington believes that [Venezuelan President] Nicolas Maduro should go. Washington’s response is its distorted doctrine of regime change [in] democratic nations that do not like it when someone twists their arms and forcibly interferes into their internal affairs,” Rodriguez explained. The Vice President noted that the US is creating a “false positive” impression about its own policies against Caracas, which by no means requires any help from Washington, despite reeling from social and economic problems. Recently, the Venezuelan army had barricaded the Tienditas international bridge on the border with Colombia and blocked trucks and tankers carrying aid from entering into the country. The remarks by the Venezuelan Vice President came after Guaido told AFP last week that he could “authorize” a foreign military intervention into the country to topple President Maduro. According to reports, President Maduro, many times since the crisis began in January has called for dialogue with the Opposition but was turned down repeatedly. Meanwhile, Guaido has been recognised as the legitimate Head of the State by the US and the EU.

Humanitarian aid is a big lie: Venezuelan Vice President

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