The President of the United States, Donald Trump, stated that Venezuela is not prepared to hold elections, although he expects them to take place soon. His remarks come after a deal that grants the US control over part of Venezuela's oil.
During a press conference at the White House, Donald Trump expressed that, although the interim leader of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, "wants" elections to be held, the country is still not ready for that. According to expansion.com, Trump indicated that he hopes the elections will take place "soon".
The recent agreement between the United States and Rodríguez's government grants the US control over the exploitation of **17 oil fields** in Venezuela, which represent nearly one-fifth of the country's crude reserves. Trump defended this pact, arguing that it is necessary to revitalise the Venezuelan economy before calling for elections.
The president also commented on the work that Rodríguez is doing in the country, stating that "she is very respected" and that the US government maintains a good relationship with the new regime following the fall of Nicolás Maduro.
However, the agreement has faced criticism from those who argue that it shows Washington is not interested in the democratisation of Venezuela, but only in accessing its oil resources.
You may also like
