Maduro's fall raises Venezuelans' hopes for oil-linked economic prospects

A US raid removed Nicolas Maduro and his departure has prompted talks about selling Venezuelan oil to the United States; interim leader Delcy Rodriguez has pledged cooperation on oil while saying the country is not subordinate to Washington.

A US raid removed Nicolas Maduro from Venezuela's leadership and has changed expectations about the country's economic future. Citizens and analysts are focused on talks over selling Venezuelan oil to the United States as a possible source of renewed cash flow. Interim leader Delcy Rodriguez has said Venezuela is not subordinate to Washington while pledging cooperation on oil. Years of inflation and prior reliance on alternatives such as cryptocurrencies have left many Venezuelans economically strained. Key points: - Officials reported that a US raid deposed President Nicolas Maduro and altered the country's political outlook. - Interim leader Delcy Rodriguez has asserted Venezuela's independence while pledging cooperation specifically on oil matters. - State oil company PDVSA is negotiating crude sales with Washington, and US actions include measures to protect Venezuelan oil revenue and calls for US investment in the sector. - Analysts note oil accounts for the majority of foreign currency earnings and say restoring exports and easing sanctions could revive cash flows and the currency market. Summary: The political change has opened talks that could affect Venezuela's oil exports and foreign currency inflows, which many see as key to easing the country's economic strain. Analysts forecast that increased oil income could expand output and boost cash flows. Undetermined at this time.