A dramatic shift in US-Venezuela relations is underway, with President Donald Trump praising interim leader Delcy Rodriguez for her compliance with US demands following the ousting of Nicolas Maduro.
US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, leading a delegation of mining executives, visited Caracas to secure access to Venezuela's critical minerals, including gold, coltan, and bauxite, touting "unlimited" investment opportunities. This follows Energy Secretary Chris Wright's visit focused on boosting oil output.
Venezuelan state oil firm PDVSA has already shipped over 80 million barrels of crude to the US since January, with new contracts signed amidst global supply concerns from the Middle East. The US Department of Transportation has also authorized direct flights, signaling a full diplomatic reset.
While environmentalists express concerns over expanded mining, Rodriguez is actively updating mining codes to attract significant foreign investment, solidifying US access to vital resources.
