Venezuela's Rodriguez says sanctions talks continue ahead of elections

Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez said Wednesday that her government is continuing to work with the US to lift sanctions and create conditions for an electoral process.

"I do not set dates, but there will undoubtedly be an electoral process when the conditions are in place," Rodriguez told reporters outside the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas.

She made the remarks alongside US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who is visiting as Washington and Caracas seek to deepen cooperation on energy.

Rodriguez said the two governments continue to work toward lifting sanctions, but did not provide a timeline for removal or specify what conditions would need to be met for elections.

Her comments came as Wright held talks with Venezuelan officials and energy companies in Caracas on plans to increase oil production and attract foreign investment.

The Venezuelan government said Rodriguez and Wright discussed investment mechanisms, joint projects and measures to increase capital flows into the energy sector.

The visit follows a broader agreement between Washington and Caracas aimed at expanding Venezuela's oil production, and encouraging new investment in the country's energy industry.

US oil company Chevron and Italy's Eni also announced plans Wednesday to expand their operations in Venezuela.

The developments mark a significant shift in relations between Washington and Caracas after years of US sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil industry and government officials.

Rodriguez has repeatedly urged the removal of the sanctions, arguing that they have restricted economic activity and limited its access to international investment.

The administration of US President Donald Trump has gradually eased some restrictions on the energy sector as it seeks greater US involvement in Venezuela’s oil industry and increased investment.

The electoral process is a key issue in Venezuela's political transition following the removal of President Nicolas Maduro earlier this year.

Rodriguez assumed the interim presidency as Caracas and Washington began negotiating Venezuela's political and economic future.

Her comments suggest that sanctions relief and political normalization remain closely linked as the two governments expand cooperation in the energy sector.

Trump, speaking to reporters Wednesday in Washington, said Venezuela was “not ready yet” for elections, while praising Rodriguez's performance as interim president.

“We got them out of a dictatorship and we get along very well with the new government. Delcy, as you know, is doing a very good job and she is very respected,” he said.