Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodríguez Faces US Pressures in State of the Union Address

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's acting President, navigates pressures from the US and Maduro loyalists in her inaugural state of the union speech. She outlines her vision for governance and potential changes to the oil industry amidst political tensions.

Venezuela's acting President, Delcy Rodríguez, is preparing to deliver her inaugural state of the union address. This comes amid heightened tensions with the United States, which recently ousted her predecessor. Rodríguez faces challenges from both the US and supporters of former President Nicolás Maduro. Her speech is anticipated to outline her administration's plans, including potential reforms in the state-owned oil sector.

Rodríguez has indicated that her government will continue releasing prisoners detained under Maduro. She described this as part of "a new political moment" following his removal by the US earlier this month. Her address to the National Assembly, dominated by the ruling party, is expected to highlight her vision for Venezuela's future.

US-Venezuela Relations

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump was scheduled to meet with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado at the White House. Machado's party is believed to have won the 2024 elections, which Maduro rejected. However, Trump has endorsed Rodríguez, sidelining Machado despite her political influence.

Rodríguez acknowledged a recent call with Trump and stated on state television that revenue from oil sales would be used to revamp Venezuela's public health care system. The country's hospitals and health facilities are in disrepair, requiring patients to supply their own medical necessities.

Oil Industry and Political Dynamics

The acting president is under pressure from both Washington and internal hard-liners who control Venezuela's security forces. Trump has tasked Rodríguez with ensuring US control over Venezuela's oil sales, despite previously sanctioning her for human rights abuses during his first term.

Trump has warned Rodríguez of consequences "probably worse than Maduro" if she fails to comply with his directives. Meanwhile, Maduro remains in a Brooklyn jail, facing drug-trafficking charges to which he has pleaded not guilty.

Rodríguez's speech is expected to address potential changes in the oil industry, which Trump has vowed to revitalise since Maduro's ousting. This move could significantly impact Venezuela's economy and its relations with international partners.

The acting president must navigate these complex dynamics while maintaining stability within the country. Her leadership will be crucial in determining Venezuela's path forward amidst these challenging circumstances.

With inputs from PTI