Publication

The United States has traditionally had close relations with Venezuela, a major supplier of foreign oil. These relations, however, have been strained under the Chavez government. Over the years, US officials have expressed concerns about human rights issues, Venezuela’s military arms purchases, its relations with Cuba and Iran, and its efforts to export its brand of populism to other Latin American countries. Declining cooperation on anti-drug and anti-terrorism efforts have also been a major concern. Despite tensions in relations, the Obama administration remains committed to seeking constructive engagement with Venezuela, focusing on such areas as anti-drug and counter-terrorism efforts.