Venezuela Offered US Extensive Economic Access in Attempt to De-escalate Tensions – NYT
CARACAS – Venezuelan President nicolás Maduro‘s government made a comprehensive offer to the United States, proposing to open its oil and gold sectors to American companies and curtail deals with China, Russia, and Iran, according to a New York Times report published today. The overtures, aimed at easing escalating tensions between the two nations, ultimately stalled over disagreements regarding Maduro’s political future.
The proposed concessions represent a significant potential shift in Venezuela’s economic alliances, signaling a willingness from Caracas to prioritize relations with Washington.The offer included granting preferential contracts to US businesses,redirecting oil exports away from China,and scaling back existing energy and mining agreements with Chinese,Iranian,and Russian entities. These discussions, spanning several months, underscore the complex dynamic between the publicly hostile rhetoric and behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts characterizing the US-Venezuela relationship.
Negotiations were reportedly led by Maduro’s top aides and US envoy Richard Grenell, with progress made on economic terms. Though, the Times reports a key sticking point emerged: the US demand for Maduro to step down.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly expressed skepticism towards Grenell’s diplomatic outreach, advocating for a more assertive approach toward Venezuela. the Times also cited an earlier report indicating President Trump ultimately halted dialogue with Venezuela after becoming ”frustrated” with Maduro’s refusal to cede power, with the US simultaneously developing plans for potential military intervention.
Maduro has publicly warned that Venezuela would respond with “armed struggle” to any attack and has heightened military preparedness nationwide. The failed negotiations highlight the precarious situation in Venezuela, a nation rich in natural resources and strategically crucial to both the US and its geopolitical rivals.
