Venezuela’s opposition figure Maria Corina Machado ended her silence on Thursday by releasing a video statement denouncing the oil agreement between the U.S. and Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez. Machado expressed empathy with her compatriots’ sentiments of sadness and anger over decisions regarding their country’s resources being made without their consent.

This statement followed a day where both Trump and Rodriguez failed to provide a timeline for Venezuela’s return to democracy. Trump praised the current leadership without acknowledging that Rodriguez was not elected to her position.

Machado emphasized the need for democratic legitimacy before finalizing such agreements, highlighting the confusion surrounding the deal terms. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity regarding the rejuvenation of 17 oilfields and the production of 65 billion barrels as outlined in Trump’s touted “biggest oil deal ever.”

Critics, including Venezuelan Canadians with expertise in the oil sector, expressed discontent with the deal, citing disappointment and frustration. The focus on oil investments over addressing political issues, such as the release of prisoners, further fueled criticism.

The involvement of U.S.-based companies and individuals with ties to the Maduro regime raised eyebrows among experts and politicians, with concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. The deal’s reception in Venezuela and its impact on the upcoming U.S. midterm elections were also scrutinized.

The fear of Venezuela falling into a state of subjugation under the guise of economic partnerships was highlighted, with concerns about the implications of the deal on the country’s sovereignty and political future. The opposition’s apprehensions about Washington’s motives in supporting Rodriguez’s regime were palpable, with doubts about the U.S.’ commitment to democratic principles.