The United States has lifted sanctions on Delcy Rodríguez, allowing her to engage with American companies and financial systems, opening the door to closer oil and business ties. It also signals continued US recognition of Rodríguez as Venezuela’s acting leader following the capture of Nicolás Maduro in January. Rodríguez welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward “normalisation and strengthening” of relations, and expressed hope for broader sanctions relief. The policy shift comes as Washington has already eased restrictions on Venezuela’s oil sector, allowing state firm PDVSA to resume sales and attract foreign investment. Meanwhile, Maduro legally is still Venezuela’s president. In the hours after the 3 January operation, the country’s ruling-party-loyal high court declared his absence "temporary." Rodríguez and her brother, Jorge Rodríguez, were hit with US sanctions during Trump’s first term for their role in allegedly undermining Venezuelan democracy. #Venezuela #US...