Summary
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have started working again with Venezuela under its interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez. These financial organizations paused relations in 2019 due to international disagreement over who led Venezuela after contested elections.
Key Facts
- The IMF and World Bank cut ties with Venezuela in 2019 because countries disagreed on whether Nicolas Maduro or Juan Guaido was the true leader.
- The IMF announced it restored relations with Venezuela under acting President Delcy Rodriguez.
- The World Bank followed the IMF’s decision and will also resume dealings with Venezuela.
- The U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, recently removed sanctions against Rodriguez, helping her gain international recognition.
- Delcy Rodriguez took power in January 2026 after President Trump ordered the capture of former President Maduro on drug and weapons charges.
- Venezuela can now ask these financial institutions for money if needed to improve its difficult economic situation.
- Venezuela owes more than $150 billion in debts, one of the largest debt burdens worldwide.
- Venezuela has been a member of the IMF and World Bank since 1946 but last received a loan from the World Bank in 2005.
