Venezuela's interim leader rejects U.S. demands to cut ties with Iran, China, Russia, and Cuba, asserting sovereignty amid oil talks and tensions.

Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodríguez asserted the country’s right to maintain diplomatic ties with Iran, China, Russia, and Cuba, rejecting U.S. demands to sever relations as a condition for increased oil exports. Speaking to the National Assembly, she condemned the January 3 U.S. military operation that captured former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife as an act of aggression, stressing Venezuela’s sovereignty and independence in foreign policy. The remarks highlight growing tensions between Venezuela’s interim government and the U.S., as negotiations over the oil sector continue amid broader geopolitical shifts.