Fri Jan 09 05:31:06 UTC 2026: ### Trump Signals Meeting with Machado Amidst Venezuelan Turmoil

The Story:
U.S. President Donald Trump indicated on January 8, 2026, that he plans to meet with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado in Washington next week, following U.S. strikes on Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro. During a Fox News interview, Trump stated he looked forward to “saying hello” to Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in October 2025. This meeting occurs amidst uncertainty regarding the future governance of Venezuela, currently led by interim acting President Delcy Rodriguez.

Trump also discussed Venezuela’s oil industry, a focal point of his administration. A senior official told Reuters that oil sales to the U.S. will begin immediately, with initial shipments of 30 million to 50 million barrels. Trump plans to meet with oil executives on January 9, 2026, to discuss their role in rebuilding Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, estimating investments of at least $100 billion.

Key Points:

  • President Trump signaled a meeting with Maria Corina Machado following U.S. strikes in Venezuela.
  • Nicolas Maduro has been captured; Delcy Rodriguez is serving as interim acting President.
  • Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize in October 2025.
  • The U.S. anticipates starting oil sales from Venezuela immediately, with initial shipments between 30-50 million barrels.
  • Oil executives are expected to invest at least $100 billion in rebuilding Venezuela’s oil industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. is actively engaging with Venezuelan opposition leadership following military intervention, suggesting a coordinated effort to influence the country’s future.
  • Oil is a significant driver behind U.S. involvement in Venezuela, as demonstrated by the immediate plans to restart oil sales and the projected investment in the oil industry.
  • Despite expressing reservations about Machado’s domestic support, Trump’s willingness to meet her indicates a potential shift in strategy or a calculated move to exert influence.

Impact Analysis:

The U.S. intervention in Venezuela and the subsequent meeting with Maria Corina Machado have long-term implications for the region. The establishment of immediate oil sales to the United States suggests a strategic objective of stabilizing oil supplies and potentially diminishing the influence of other oil-producing nations. The investment in Venezuela’s oil infrastructure solidifies a long-term US presence and influence in the region, affecting not only Venezuela’s economy but also its political trajectory. The future governance of Venezuela will likely be heavily influenced by U.S. policies and priorities.

Read More

Related News: