The Trump administration is seeking greater access to Venezuela's mineral resources, including gold, as Washington expands its efforts to influence the South American country's natural resources beyond oil.
Three sources familiar with the discussions say the effort could open Venezuela's mining sector to increased U.S. investment and give American companies access to minerals considered critical to national security.
The sources say the administration is considering several measures to increase U.S. involvement in Venezuela's mining sector, including a possible executive order focused on critical minerals.
The order is still being drafted, however, and the sources say the strategy could change.
U.S. officials have also been meeting with companies to assess their interest in investing in or participating in Venezuela's mining sector.
The move forms part of what the Trump administration is positioning as the US President's broader effort to strengthen his country's influence in Latin America and counter China's growing economic presence in the region.
Venezuela has significant economic and diplomatic ties with China, developed under former President Nicolas Maduro.
comments powered by Disqus
.jpg)
.jpg)
All feeds
