Wed Jan 07 03:29:42 UTC 2026: # Trump Seizes Control of Venezuelan Oil After Maduro’s Ouster
The Story:
Following a dramatic raid by U.S. special forces resulting in the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez is navigating a treacherous landscape. Despite insisting that no foreign power governs Venezuela, she faces immense pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has declared Washington “in charge” and demands access to the country’s vast oil reserves. Trump has publicly announced a plan for Venezuela to hand over 30 to 50 MILLION barrels of oil, with the proceeds controlled directly by him. This power grab has sparked both internal dissent and international condemnation, with Mexico calling for a fair trial for Maduro and his wife, and opposition figures warning against trusting Rodriguez.
Key Points:
* U.S. special forces captured Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Ms. Flores, in a raid in Caracas.
* Delcy Rodriguez, Venezuela’s interim leader, insists no foreign power governs the country.
* President Donald Trump demands access to Venezuela’s oil reserves and intends to control the revenue from its sale.
* Venezuela’s military confirmed 23 troop deaths, including 5 generals, in U.S. strikes.
* Cuba reported 32 dead military personnel, many from Maduro’s security detail.
* Maria Corina Machado, an opposition leader, warns against trusting Delcy Rodriguez.
* 16 journalists and media workers were briefly detained in Venezuela.
* Mexico is calling for a fair trial for Maduro and his wife.
Critical Analysis:
The events unfolding in Venezuela represent a culmination of escalating tensions between the U.S. and the Maduro regime. Trump’s direct announcement regarding Venezuelan oil points to a blatant grab for resources under the guise of regime change. The reference to the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and the India EAM comment indicate international concern about the situation’s stability and potential impact on regional power dynamics.
Key Takeaways:
- The U.S. has effectively seized control of Venezuela’s oil resources following Maduro’s capture.
- Delcy Rodriguez is under immense pressure to comply with U.S. demands while facing internal opposition.
- The situation is highly unstable, with potential for further conflict and human rights abuses.
- The U.S.’s actions are drawing international scrutiny and condemnation.
- The future of Venezuela remains uncertain, hinging on the outcome of Maduro’s trial and Rodriguez’s response to U.S. pressure.
Impact Analysis:
The long-term implications of these events are significant. The U.S. control of Venezuelan oil could reshape global energy markets and strengthen Washington’s influence in the region. However, it also risks further destabilizing Venezuela, exacerbating humanitarian crises, and fueling anti-American sentiment. The trial of Maduro could set a precedent for international justice, while the actions of Delcy Rodriguez will determine the future political landscape of Venezuela. The role of Russia, China, and Iran, as highlighted by Machado, will be crucial in the geopolitical fallout.
First Piper 