In a video message posted to X on Thursday, Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado emphasized that only a “serious, democratic government” can give investors the certainty they need to pour capital into the country’s oil industry.
International firms sign new projects under interim leadership
Wednesday’s signing ceremony, overseen by interim President Delcy Rodríguez and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, saw major energy companies—including Italy’s Eni, GE Vernova and Chevron—commit to expanding projects in Venezuela. The deals are part of a broader push to revive a sector that now produces roughly 1.25 million barrels per day, far below its 1990s peak of 3 million bpd.
Machado highlighted the strategic importance of the United States as Venezuela’s principal partner, noting that “the enemies of the United States in Venezuela are sitting in Miraflores today.” She argued that a stable, democratic government is essential for attracting long‑term capital, delivering profitability, and reducing the country’s risk profile.
Link to the Trump administration
Since leaving Venezuela late last year after a period of hiding to accept her Nobel award, Machado has cultivated close ties with the Trump administration. President Trump’s team has taken a hard line against Nicolás Maduro, even staging a January raid that removed the longtime president from power. Machado’s remarks reflect that alignment, positioning the United States as a key ally in Venezuela’s economic recovery.
U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio—who has long been associated with Machado—defended the oil deal as part of a broader effort to align Venezuela’s energy sector with American interests while helping rebuild a nation plagued by corruption. They also warned that conditions for free elections are not yet met.
Uncertainty remains
Machado admitted that the “true scope” of the agreement remains unclear, citing unanswered questions about who is signing, what guarantees are being offered, and how Venezuelans will benefit. International observers continue to dispute the legitimacy of the 2024 presidential election, which Machado’s movement claims it won by a landslide, while Venezuela’s electoral authorities and top court declared Maduro the victor.
Despite the lingering doubts, the message from Machado is clear: lasting stability for the oil sector hinges on democratic legitimacy. She urged both domestic and foreign investors to look for a government that can provide the profitability, certainty and security needed for sustained growth.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
