Behind Venezuela's upcoming talks between the government and a section of the opposition lies a larger question: how much control Washington now exerts over the country's political and economic future. The United States has spent the past seven months deepening its involvement, from capturing President Nicolas Maduro to managing the nation's oil revenue access. As negotiations prepare to begin, the role of key opposition figures and the goals of the US remain under scrutiny. Main Developments Venezuela's government and one opposition faction are set to hold talks, with US backing playing a central role. The negotiations come after a period of intense US intervention, beginning with the January capture of President Maduro, who was taken to New York to face drug-trafficking charges. Washington now determines how Venezuela accesses its oil revenues, the country's economic mainstay. This control is supported by interim leader Delcy Rodriguez, who is also brokering the talks between the government and opposition factions. Read also: Armenian Monastery Targeted in Jerusalem Attack Background The sidelining of high-profile opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has raised questions about the inclusivity of the process. Machado, a prominent critic of the government, has been excluded from direct participation, highlighting divisions within the opposition itself. This is not the first time the US has intervened in Venezuela's affairs. Previous efforts included support for opposition figures like Juan Guaido, who was recognized by many Western nations as interim president. The current talks mark a shift from that approach, focusing instead on negotiated settlement with the Maduro government. Why It Matters The outcome of these talks could reshape Venezuela's political landscape and its relationship with the US. Control over oil revenues is a critical lever, affecting the country's economy and the livelihoods of its citizens. Moreover, the exclusion of influential opposition voices like Machado may undermine the legitimacy of any agreement. The talks also test the US's ability to influence Venezuela's internal affairs while balancing its own strategic interests in the region. For Venezuelans, the stakes are high, as the negotiations could determine the path toward political stability or continued crisis. What's Next As the talks proceed, observers will watch whether the US pushes for specific concessions from the Maduro government, such as electoral reforms or the release of political prisoners. The role of Delcy Rodriguez as broker will be key in bridging the gap between the two sides. Questions remain about whether Maria Corina Machado will be brought into the process or continue to be sidelined. The talks' success may depend on how far Washington is willing to go in easing economic pressure, particularly around oil revenue access. Any agreement will need to address the deep-seated political divisions that have fueled Venezuela's crisis for years.