Venezuela insists sovereignty intact amid US oil agreement

Venezuela's interim administration moved to counter criticism of an oil agreement with the United States, with officials emphasizing that the country's sovereign authority remained uncompromised by the arrangement. The televised address sought to frame the deal as a strategic commercial transaction rather than a concession of national interests.

The oil-for-trade agreement has drawn scrutiny from various quarters, with observers questioning the terms and implications for Venezuela's energy resources. Officials maintained that the arrangement served the nation's economic interests while preserving decision-making authority on key policy matters.

The emphasis on retained sovereignty reflects broader sensitivities in Venezuela regarding foreign economic agreements. The interim government has faced ongoing challenges in stabilizing the country's deteriorating economy and securing international recognition for its legitimacy.

The statement underscores tensions between the need to generate revenue through energy exports and political concerns about appearing to cede control over national resources. Officials have indicated the accord represents a pragmatic approach to addressing Venezuela's pressing economic difficulties while maintaining independent governance.