Venezuelans are experiencing ideological divisions following a shift in the nation's political landscape, specifically the recent alliance between the interim government and the United States. This development comes after nearly three decades of Chavismo, an ideology centered on utilizing Venezuela's oil wealth for national transformation, poverty reduction, and resistance against U.S. influence.

The director of the C.I.A. met with Venezuela's interim president in Caracas on Thursday to discuss enhanced bilateral collaboration, signaling Washington's increasing involvement in the country's oil resources. This meeting occurred after the United States intervened to apprehend President Nicolás Maduro earlier this month.

The current government, comprised of Maduro's inner circle who identify as Chavistas, faces scrutiny from staunch loyalists of former President Hugo Chávez. These loyalists question the ideological fidelity of the current leadership, particularly regarding Chávez's blend of socialism, nationalism, state control of key industries, and anti-imperialism.

"At this point, we should have cut off the oil, we shouldn’t have sold any oil to the United States. Zero oil, zero oil!" said Beatri, a 63-year-old Venezuelan, expressing a sentiment shared by some who believe the nation should not be cooperating with the U.S.

The core tenets of Chavismo, established by Hugo Chávez, involved using Venezuela's vast oil reserves to fund social programs, strengthen national sovereignty, and challenge U.S. hegemony in the region. This included nationalizing key industries and implementing policies aimed at redistributing wealth.

While Maduro awaits trial in the United States, his allies continue to govern Venezuela, navigating a complex political environment marked by internal dissent and external pressures. The future direction of Venezuela's political and economic policies remains uncertain as the nation grapples with its relationship with the United States and the legacy of Chavismo.