U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum met in Caracas with Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez to discuss energy and mining investment, signaling renewed U.S. engagement to attract American capital into oil, gas, and minerals.

The reform push aims to unlock large-scale mineral exploitation—gold, diamonds and others—contingent on swift passage of mining-law changes.

This comes within a broader U.S.-China competition over rare minerals and a push to diversify supply chains away from Chinese-dominated networks for high-tech and defense minerals.

Washington is maintaining pressure behind the scenes, including potential legal actions against Rodríguez, even as public cooperation with Venezuela continues.

Past bilateral activity included Iranian mining exploration under agreements, which did not translate into investments, with media reports of probes into Rodríguez.

Public backing from then-President Trump highlighted Rodríguez’s cooperation, with claims that oil flows were starting, while reports of corruption-related pressure circulated.

Historical context notes a legacy of indebtedness from past nationalizations and limited exploration for rare earths; Iran’s mining involvement in Venezuela did not yield sustained investment.

The visit follows intensified U.S. influence efforts after political changes, with Trump publicly supportive, while reports mention potential corruption and money-laundering charges against Rodríguez that Washington denies.

The meeting occurred amid February visits by other U.S. officials; Burgum’s remarks reference a Wednesday meeting, without listing exact dates.

The broader aim is to bolster critical mineral supply chains amid tensions with Maduro’s government, with ongoing U.S. pressure tied to investigations referenced by Reuters sources.

Trump praised Rodríguez and urged cooperation with U.S. representatives during the talks, signaling continued willingness to engage Venezuela’s leadership.

Trump’s public endorsement of Rodríguez’s cooperation suggested a favorable reception to U.S.–Venezuela collaboration amid political upheaval.