U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has disclosed that Washington is implementing a "three-stage" plan for Venezuela, focusing on stabilization, recovery, and transition.
During a press briefing, Rubio emphasized that the immediate goal is to prevent Venezuela from spiraling into chaos.
Rubio outlined the initial phase as "stabilizing the country," which involves what he termed a "quarantine" or blockade, allowing the U.S. to exert significant influence.
In this framework, he mentioned that two additional ships had been seized, and his administration was "on the verge of executing a deal" to acquire oil that is "trapped" in Venezuela due to the quarantine and sanctions, preventing its movement.
He stated that the U.S. plans to take between 30 and 50 million barrels of oil, which will be sold "on the market at market prices," rather than the "discounts" Venezuela previously received.
The funds from these sales will be managed to ensure they benefit "the Venezuelan people" rather than "corruption" or "the regime," according to Rubio.
Ensuring Fair Market Access
The second phase, termed "recovery," aims to guarantee fair access for American, Western, and other businesses to the Venezuelan market.
Concurrently, a national reconciliation process will be promoted, granting amnesty to opposition forces, releasing them from prison, or allowing their return to rebuild civil society.
Details on the Transition Phase to Come
The third phase, referred to as "transition," is set to be elaborated on in the coming days, with Rubio expressing optimism about the positive progress of his team.
Rubio presented this three-stage strategy within the broader context of U.S. efforts to prevent internal disorder, foster economic recovery, and lead to a political transition in Venezuela.
The U.S. has also announced it will indefinitely control the sale of Venezuelan oil, with proceeds placed in accounts managed by Washington. This was confirmed by Energy Secretary Chris Wright at an energy conference in Miami.
Wright stated that the U.S. will place Venezuelan oil, including "stuck" crude, on the market, with sales directed to American refineries and global buyers. These transactions will be carried out by the U.S. Government, with revenues deposited in accounts under U.S. control, according to EFE.
U.S. Collaboration with Venezuelan Government
The secretary mentioned ongoing cooperation with Venezuelans following President Donald Trump's announcement that Venezuela will deliver between 30 and 50 million barrels to the U.S. for sale in the North American market.
The plan includes transporting these volumes via storage vessels to unloading docks in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Strategy in Venezuela
What are the three phases of the U.S. plan for Venezuela?
The three phases are stabilization, recovery, and transition.
How does the U.S. plan to stabilize Venezuela?
The U.S. aims to stabilize Venezuela through a "quarantine" or blockade that allows it to exert influence and manage oil resources.
What is the focus of the recovery phase?
The recovery phase focuses on ensuring fair access for American and Western businesses to the Venezuelan market and promoting national reconciliation.
Who will control the sale of Venezuelan oil?
The U.S. Government will control the sale and distribution of Venezuelan oil, with revenues held in accounts managed by Washington.