Delcy Rodríguez Denies Ceding Sovereignty as Time Reveals U.S. Influence Over Venezuela's Oil Revenue

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's interim president, insists she has not ceded sovereignty to the United States in a Time magazine interview, even as the publication details unprecedented U.S. oversight of the country's oil revenues and finances. The interview marks a sharp shift from the chavista era, with Rodríguez portrayed as a proxy for President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Sovereignty Dispute

Rodríguez stated, "I start by acting in good faith and trusting that these relationships can develop in good faith," adding that her strategy is to ensure peace and economic well-being. She expressed hope Venezuela would not become "a pawn in any other country's political agenda" Source: Infobae. However, the Time report, citing U.S. and Venezuelan officials, asserts that Washington exercises control over oil revenue and public finances through a framework overseen by Rubio Source: El Diado.

U.S. Cooperation and Return of Investment

The articles highlight that the new relationship has allowed the return of U.S. companies like ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips, resumption of commercial flights, and joint operations against organized crime. Rodríguez confirmed cooperation on drug trafficking and transnational crime Source: Portafolio. Boeing and other firms are also mentioned as having renewed interest.

• Rodríguez described her first call with Trump after Maduro's capture in January 2026, where they discussed reestablishing diplomatic ties Source: El Nacional.
• The capture of Maduro and his transfer to New York for a narcoterrorism trial occurred on January 3, 2026 Source: Infobae.
• Critics argue that the U.S. has gained unprecedented influence, but Rodríguez maintains she is acting independently Source: Portafolio.