A recent oil deal brokered by the United States has ignited controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Venezuelan opposition figures, economists, and even socialists who view the agreement as a capitulation to U.S. influence.
The deal, reportedly involving 65 billion barrels of crude oil, has been labeled by some as a "colonialist fever dream." Critics contend that the U.S. has prioritized an accord with the current Venezuelan government over efforts to restore democracy and constitutional order. Venezuelan economist Ricardo Hausmann directly addressed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on social media, stating, "You chose to use the power of the United States not to liberate Venezuelans, but to ally yourself with our oppressors." Hausmann further criticized the U.S. for proceeding with an "unconstitutional agreement with an illegitimate and oppressive government" instead of working towards the restoration of democracy.
The lack of a clear timeline for elections in Venezuela has been perceived by many opponents as a significant betrayal. This sentiment extends to some within Venezuela's governing socialist party, PSUV. While the party has publicly backed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez's agreement, a faction of socialists views it as a capitulation. They argue that after decades of opposition to U.S. influence, the deal effectively hands over one of the country's most valuable assets to the United States.
Rafael Ramírez, former head of the state-run energy firm PDVSA and oil minister under former President Hugo Chávez, expressed strong disapproval. He stated that the deal "hands over [the oil] and opens the doors to a new colonialism of the United States." This perspective echoes sentiments from Chávez's era, when he vehemently denounced past U.S.-friendly governments for turning Venezuela into "a nation of gringos" and vowed to maintain state control over oilfields. Chávez, during a 2008 television program, asserted, "We have the reins in our hands and we won't ever let them go again," following the expropriation of assets from companies like ExxonMobil.
The current agreement, signed by Rodríguez, a successor to Chávez's chosen political line, is praised by the Venezuelan government as a victory. However, the swiftness and ease with which Washington engaged in this deal have reportedly frustrated the Venezuelan opposition, including prominent figures like presidential hopeful María Corina Machado. While Machado has reportedly refrained from publicly criticizing President Trump, whose support she may need, others have been more vocal in their condemnation of the U.S. administration's approach.