Trump demands Venezuela cut ties with China and Russia

Donald Trump has given Venezuela an ultimatum: to cut ties with China, Russia and others and switch to «exclusive» oil cooperation with the United States

Administration Donald Trump has officially put before the interim leader of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez a number of tough requirements that Caracas must fulfil in order to resume oil exports and avoid further financial collapse, reports ABC News citing sources near the White House.

The main requirements from the US are as follows:

• Venezuela should «expel» or significantly reduce political and economic ties with China, Russia, Iran and Cuba.

• Caracas should enter into an “exclusive” partnership with the United States for the production and sale of heavy oil and give priority to American buyers when exporting.

Trump and his advisers argue that Venezuela's oil tankers are already full, and without resuming crude oil sales, the country's economy could soon face complete insolvency, according to the Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Caracas is weeks away from financial collapse without new oil contracts.

Geopolitical context

Trump's demand is aimed not only at economic pressure, but also at limiting the influence of the US global rivals in Latin America - primarily China and Russia, which have long been Venezuela's main external partners in energy and finance.

At the same time, the United States continues to exert pressure in the region after recent actions in Venezuela, including operations against former regime leaders and greater control of US forces over the oil industry. Analysts note that this could dramatically change the balance of power in South America and strengthen Washington's position as a key player in the energy sector.

Critics point out that such demands effectively force Venezuela to choose between an independent foreign policy and economic survival, which reinforces the conflict lines between the US and other states, including China, Russia and Iran.

Possible consequences

Experts believe that Trump's ultimatum could have several potential consequences:

• Economic pressure on Venezuela: Without access to the market and new contracts, Caracas risks plunging into a deep crisis due to a shortage of foreign exchange earnings.

• Changes in energy flows: The redirection of Venezuelan oil to the US market could affect the global distribution of energy resources and reduce US dependence on other sources.

• Increased geopolitical tensions: The demands for exclusive cooperation with the United States are exacerbating Washington's rivalry with Beijing and Moscow, which could have long-term consequences for global alliances.