Venezuela’s opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado, ended her silence with a video statement rejecting the recent oil deal between the U.S. government and Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez. Machado expressed concern over decisions being made without the consent of Venezuelans.
This statement followed a lack of commitment from both President Trump and Rodriguez regarding a timeline for Venezuela’s return to democracy. Trump’s endorsement of the Rodriguez government raised eyebrows as Rodriguez was not elected to the position.
Machado emphasized the need for democratic legitimacy before any major deals, highlighting the confusion surrounding the terms of the agreement. Venezuelans are expressing discontent over the lack of clarity and details.
The deal, involving 17 Venezuelan oilfields and 65 billion barrels, has drawn criticism from Venezuelan Canadians, especially those with industry expertise. They question the focus on oil over resolving political issues like freeing political prisoners.
The involvement of U.S. and Venezuelan entities in the deal, including private companies, has raised concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. Critics argue that the deal was negotiated improperly with an illegitimate government.
Venezuelans fear the deal could lead to further foreign influence and the perpetuation of the current regime. The opposition worries that the agreement might strengthen the dictatorship and undermine efforts for democracy and freedom in the country.