US-Venezuela oil deal triggers opposition as interim leader claims economic boost

Caracas – Venezuela’s opposition coalition voiced criticism on Tuesday as interim president Juan Guaidó reaffirmed that a pending agreement with the United States will bolster the nation’s economic recovery. Guaidó, who leads the opposition recognized by Washington as the country’s legitimate authority, said the deal – which is expected to include the partial lifting of U.S. sanctions on the oil sector and the release of frozen assets – will create a “new framework for investment, jobs and humanitarian assistance.” He added that the arrangement will also facilitate the return of Venezuelan expatriates and enable the government to meet basic social needs, citing a projected increase in oil revenues and the potential for renewed credit lines.

Opposition parties, however, expressed doubts about the timing and transparency of the negotiations, warning that any concessions could be used by President Nicolás Maduro’s administration to consolidate power. They called for a broader consultative process that includes civil society groups and warned that without clear safeguards, the benefits of the agreement may not reach the most vulnerable populations. The United States has indicated it will move forward with the talks contingent on verifiable steps toward democratic reforms, while the Maduro government has yet to comment publicly. The outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain, with both domestic and international observers watching closely for signs of progress toward Venezuela’s long‑standing economic and political crisis.