U.S. Secretary of State acts as 'viceroy' in Venezuela, controlling finances via WhatsApp

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is effectively acting as Venezuela's viceroy, wielding de facto control over the nation's finances, natural resources, and government, a New York Times investigation revealed. This unprecedented level of influence over a sovereign state is managed remotely, with Rubio coordinating daily operations in Caracas through WhatsApp messages to Delcy Rodríguez.

Rodríguez, formerly vice president under Nicolás Maduro, now governs Venezuela with explicit approval from Washington. A State Department representative stated that Venezuela can become a stable and prosperous partner again through restored cooperation and rational economic management, benefiting its citizens with its vast resources and strengthened ties with the U.S.

The U.S. Treasury Department now collects revenue from the majority of Venezuelan exports. These funds are then channeled to Caracas's banking system according to priorities set by Washington. Rubio's team imposes strict conditions on how the money is spent and by whom. This strategy has effectively halted major corruption schemes and protected the country's revenue from international creditors seeking repayment of billions in debt.

However, this mechanism has rendered the Rodríguez administration entirely dependent on U.S. decisions. It has hampered the local executive's ability to pay salaries or support the national currency without prior approval of funds. Beyond finances, Rubio oversees the enforcement of U.S. sanctions and reforms within the oil industry. Key government appointments, including the defense minister, are also directly coordinated with the American official.

Washington's influence extends to Venezuela's foreign policy. Following a U.S. attack on Iran, Venezuela's foreign minister, Yván Gil, posted a moderated condemnation. The Trump administration demanded the text's removal and warned the interim leadership against publicly supporting U.S. adversaries. The message was deleted hours later. Another instance highlighting Venezuela's lack of autonomy occurred when Fox News journalist Bret Baier requested an interview with Rodríguez, who stated the request required personal approval from President Donald Trump.

“

Through restoring cooperation and rational economic management, Venezuela can once again become a stable and prosperous partner, and its citizens will benefit from its vast natural resources and consolidated ties with the U.S.