US influence grows in Venezuela after Maduro's removal, experts say full control still needed

Washington’s diplomatic and economic clout in Venezuela surged after the ouster of President Nicolás Maduro, a development that has reshaped the bilateral relationship that had been dominated by sanctions and isolation for more than a decade. The transition, which followed a contested election and mounting internal pressure, opened the door for U.S. officials to engage directly with the interim government, lift portions of the embargo on oil and humanitarian goods, and coordinate with regional allies on security and reconstruction initiatives. The United States also pledged financial assistance aimed at stabilizing the country’s collapsing economy and supporting democratic institutions, signaling a marked shift from the confrontational stance that defined the previous years.

Nonetheless, political analysts caution that heightened influence does not automatically translate into lasting control, noting that Washington may still need to “own” Venezuela in practical terms to secure its strategic interests. Experts point to the necessity of sustained involvement in governance reforms, anti‑corruption measures, and the management of Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, warning that without deep, long‑term engagement the U.S. could face a vacuum that other global powers might fill. The consensus underscores that while U.S. influence has risen sharply, the path to a stable, mutually beneficial partnership will require ongoing commitment and careful navigation of Venezuela’s complex domestic dynamics.