Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, defended plans to open the country's oil market to the United States, while U.S. Vice President JD Vance asserted that the U.S. would have complete control over Venezuela's supplies. Rodríguez stated Wednesday that while attempts to remove her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro, strained relations, trading with the U.S. was not unusual and Venezuela was open to mutually beneficial energy relations.

The Trump administration has been actively seeking control over Venezuelan oil, recently seizing two sanctioned tankers and announcing its intention to manage all future sales. This move follows a period of heightened tensions between the two nations, marked by U.S. sanctions aimed at pressuring Maduro's regime.

Rodríguez emphasized that despite political differences, economic cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, could benefit both countries. She argued that Venezuela's willingness to engage in trade demonstrated a pragmatic approach to international relations, prioritizing national interests while navigating complex geopolitical challenges.

Vance's remarks, however, indicated a more assertive U.S. stance, suggesting that the U.S. aims to exert significant influence over Venezuela's oil resources. This position reflects a broader U.S. policy of leveraging economic tools to achieve foreign policy objectives, particularly in regions with strategic importance.

The current situation highlights the ongoing power struggle between the U.S. and Venezuela, with control over oil resources serving as a key point of contention. The U.S. sanctions and efforts to manage Venezuelan oil sales are intended to limit the Maduro government's revenue streams and promote a transition to a more democratic government.

The future of Venezuela's oil industry and its relationship with the U.S. remains uncertain. Further developments are expected as both countries continue to navigate their complex relationship, with potential implications for global energy markets and regional stability.