Nicolás Maduro has left Venezuela. The United States helped him leave on January 3rd. Maduro and his wife are now in New York. They face serious charges for drug trafficking. Delcy Rodríguez is the new acting President. The Venezuelan military supports her. This change affects Venezuela's stability. It also changes its relationship with the US.
After Maduro's departure, leaders talked a lot. The CIA Director met with Rodríguez in Caracas. This meeting was two hours long. It was to build trust and communication. The US worried about Venezuela helping America's enemies. Some opposition leaders feel left out. María Corina Machado wants to lead Venezuela later. She gave President Trump her Nobel Peace Prize medal. Trump seems to prefer working with Rodríguez. He said this is to avoid problems like in Iraq.
Rodríguez is changing Maduro's old plans. She announced reforms for the oil industry. These changes aim to bring in foreign money. Venezuela's economy is very weak. President Trump wants US oil companies to invest. They should invest over $100 billion. They will also manage oil sales. Some business leaders are not sure. They think the market is too risky now. The US energy secretary said cooperation is needed. This will prevent collapse and help democracy.
Many groups are still active in Venezuela. These include armed groups and criminal networks. They operate even though Maduro is gone. Venezuela's future depends on its internal power. It also depends on US expectations. The US took action against Maduro. However, the future is still difficult. The coming years will bring many possibilities. This depends on economic reforms and political stability. It also depends on continued talks between Caracas and Washington. The US strategy of working with current leaders is important. It will help Venezuela move towards stability.