Venezuelan leftists split over Delcy Rodriguez's US ties

Venezuelan leftists are split over interim leader Delcy Rodriguez's cooperation with Washington, with activists and some Chavistas opposing her Western-backed policies ahead of US-backed political transition talks.

Rodriguez, who previously served as Nicolas Maduro's vice president, once accused the United States of undermining Venezuelan sovereignty through sanctions and asset seizures. Since becoming interim leader, she has cooperated with Washington to open Venezuela's oil, electricity and mining sectors to private and foreign capital.

At a protest in Caracas, communist activist Jacqueline Lopez called Rodriguez's approach “a policy of surrender” and accused her of following instructions from the US government. Other demonstrators used slogans against US influence.

The dissent has become louder since twin quakes struck northern Venezuela on June 24, killing more than 6,000 people and destroying hundreds of buildings. Student Suhey Ochoa said she would not vote for Rodriguez in a possible election because of resentment over the government's handling of the disaster.

Political scientist Luis Salamanca said open criticism inside Chavismo marks a break with the past. Another political scientist, Jesus Castillo Molleda, said most pro-government officials support Rodriguez and described US influence on Venezuela's economy as a political reality.

The planned transition talks involve the Rodriguez administration and opposition representatives approved by Washington. Maria Corina Machado, described as an opposition favorite and Nobel Peace Prize laureate living in exile, was not invited.