Venezuelan Leader Secures $300 Million from Fuel Oil Sale Amid Trade Disputes

Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president of Venezuela, announced a significant $300 million influx into a newly established social protection fund, sourced from an extraordinary sale of fuel oil. This initiative aims to enhance worker income, although specific details on the increases were not disclosed. Rodríguez also rejected Colombian President Gustavo Petro's proposal for zero tariffs on bilateral trade, citing U.S. sanctions that create an unequal playing field for Venezuelan producers. She urged Venezuelans to demand the lifting of these sanctions while celebrating the recent restoration of diplomatic relations with the U.S., marked by the American flag being raised in Caracas for the first time in seven years.

Key Details: • The $300 million will support social programs including salaries, health, and housing. • Rodríguez criticized U.S. sanctions as 'illicit' and detrimental to Venezuelan producers. • The U.S. flag was raised at the American embassy in Caracas, signaling improved relations.