Venezuela Exports First LPG Shipment Amidst Political Transition

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, announced on Sunday, February 2, 2026, the country's inaugural export of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The shipment departed from Venezuela aboard the Singapore-flagged vessel, Chrysopigi Lady, on the evening of February 1, destined for Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.

Context of Leadership Change

This announcement follows approximately one month after a U.S. military operation resulted in the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro now faces federal charges in the United States. Rodriguez, formerly Maduro's vice president, assumed the interim presidency after his capture in January.

Interim President Rodriguez's Statement

Interim President Rodriguez shared the milestone in a Telegram post:

"Proud to share this moment: the vessel Chrysopigi Lady has set sail from Venezuela with the first shipment of Liquefied Petroleum Gas. We are marking this historic milestone by exporting the country’s first molecule of gas; an achievement for the well-being of the people of Venezuela."

Navigating Diplomacy and Domestic Order

Rodriguez is currently navigating the responsibilities of maintaining domestic order and managing diplomatic relations with the United States, following the U.S. military operation weeks prior. During a ceremony on January 28, she expressed Venezuela's openness to political dialogue but cautioned against aggression from Washington.

She also referenced the U.S. military operation on January 3, 2026, stating that no one in Venezuela surrendered. Venezuela's interior minister, Diosdado Cabello, reported on January 8 that approximately 100 people died during the operation, including 32 Cuban security officials, a detail confirmed by the Cuban government on January 4.