CARACAS, March 14, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodríguez asked US President Donald Trump on Friday to totally lift the sanctions imposed on her country, as the countries begin to restore diplomatic ties. American officials are seeking greater access to Venezuela's oil and mineral wealth since a US military operation ousted leftist leader Nicolas Maduro January 3. The US Treasury began imposing sanctions in 2014 that have crippled Venezuela's economy, which saw inflation soar to 475 percent in 2025. On Friday, the US also authorized imports of fertilizer from Venezuela, as the US-Israel war against Iran drives up prices of the key agricultural commodity. "It affects the economy of Colombia, the economy of Venezuela, and our people," she said.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 14, 2026 15:00 UTC