Mauricio Claver-Carone Exits Unofficial Role in Venezuela Policy

Claver-Carone reported directly to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, wielding significant power over multibillion-dollar decisions despite holding no formal government title. His departure, which he describes as voluntary, follows reports from multiple sources suggesting he was forced out amid internal friction. Throughout his tenure, he facilitated a $150 million, non-competitive contract for Centerview Partners to restructure $200 billion in Venezuelan debt and bridged communication between U.S. interests and the government of Delcy Rodriguez.

His involvement in these business dealings drew scrutiny from within the State Department and among administration allies, including former special envoy Richard Grenell. Critics questioned the propriety of a private equity manager overseeing the acquisition of Venezuelan assets, though Claver-Carone denies any financial stake in the country. His reliance on intermediary Alejandro Betancourt—a businessman previously investigated for corruption—further fueled tensions. While the State Department maintains that Claver-Carone never held a formal role to be removed from, his exit marks a notable shift in how the Trump administration manages its energy-focused agenda in Caracas as the government transitions toward an inter-agency approach led by Rubio.