US Announces Control Over Venezuelan Oil After Maduro's Ouster

Mon Feb 02 2026 22:21:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a bold military operation, US forces have removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power, leading Donald Trump to announce plans to temporarily oversee Venezuela and utilize its vast oil reserves.

Following a military operation that successfully captured Nicolás Maduro, President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will temporarily oversee Venezuela to manage its resources, particularly its oil. The operation, described as a necessary move against the regime accused of drug trafficking, has raised legal questions regarding military actions without Congressional approval. The situation has ignited protests and celebrations in Venezuela and among the diaspora, demonstrating the stark divisions over Maduro's legacy.

US Announces Control Over Venezuelan Oil After Maduro's Ouster

In a dramatic military operation on January 3, 2026, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, marking a significant turning point in U.S.-Venezuela relations. Following the operation, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would take control of Venezuela's government temporarily and plans to utilize its extensive oil reserves to assist other nations.

The operation culminated months of intensified pressure from the Trump administration, including a military build-up near Venezuelan waters and targeted strikes on suspected drug trafficking operations. Trump characterized the maneuver as essential to combating narco-terrorism and restoring order in the country.

However, the legality of the operation drew concerns from members of Congress, as it occurred without the explicit authorization typically required for military actions. Congressional leaders expressed mixed responses, with some supporting the administration’s efforts as necessary to protect American interests and lives.

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez called for the release of Maduro, emphasizing that the U.S. actions were an affront to the nation's sovereignty. As Maduro was removed from the country and conveyed to New York for prosecution on narco-terrorism charges, divisions within Venezuela continued to grow, with mixed reactions among citizens. Protests erupted in support of Maduro, while celebrations were observed among opposing factions, especially in Colombian cities populated by Venezuelans.

In Doral, Florida, home to the largest Venezuelan community in the U.S., crowds celebrated the news with voices ringing out for freedom and liberty while waving the Venezuelan flag.

Contrastingly, back in Venezuela, Maduro loyalists took to the streets, demanding his return. The turmoil surrounding this pivotal moment highlights the enduring legacy of the Maduro regime as well as the challenges facing any potential transitional government.

As the situation unfolds, international legal experts and domestic lawmakers will likely continue to debate the ramifications of this military action and the legal justification presented by the Trump administration. The world watches as Venezuela grapples with yet another chapter in its complex history.