Mon Jan 12 18:05:18 UTC 2026: # Trump Orchestrates Venezuelan Shift, Courts Controversy

The Story:
In a stunning turn of events, U.S. President Donald Trump has asserted de facto control over Venezuela following the capture of Nicolas Maduro in a U.S. special forces raid on January 6, 2026. Despite his prior animosity, Trump now expresses willingness to work with interim leader Delcy Rodriguez, a former Maduro ally, to secure access to Venezuelan oil. This development has sparked controversy as Trump dismisses opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado as a potential leader, raising questions about the future of Venezuelan politics.

Key Points:

  • Nicolas Maduro was seized in a U.S. special forces raid on January 6, 2026, and brought to New York to face drug trafficking charges.
  • President Trump claims the U.S. has de facto control of Venezuela and is enforcing a naval blockade on Venezuelan oil exports.
  • Delcy Rodriguez, despite being a Maduro ally, has signaled cooperation with the U.S. on oil access and political reforms, including releasing political prisoners and re-establishing diplomatic ties.
  • President Trump is open to meeting with Delcy Rodriguez, while dismissing Maria Corina Machado as a potential interim leader despite her Nobel Peace Prize.
  • Oil executives, particularly ExxonMobil’s Darren Woods, have expressed reluctance to invest in Venezuela without significant reforms.
  • Limited numbers of political prisoners have been released to date.

Critical Analysis:
The shift in US policy towards Venezuela and Rodriguez is a dramatic departure from previous stances and indicates a prioritization of US interests in Venezuela, specifically the control and resumption of oil exports. The snub of Maria Corina Machado, is likely aimed at securing a more easily controlled leadership in Venezuela.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. military intervention in Venezuela marks a significant escalation in U.S. foreign policy.
  • President Trump’s willingness to work with a Maduro ally indicates a pragmatic approach focused on securing U.S. interests, specifically oil.
  • The limited release of political prisoners raises concerns about the sincerity of reforms.
  • The cautious response from oil executives highlights the continued risks associated with investing in Venezuela despite U.S. intervention.
  • The future of Venezuelan leadership remains uncertain.

Impact Analysis:

  • The U.S.’s de facto control will likely reshape Venezuela’s political and economic landscape, potentially leading to a period of instability and dependency.
  • This action could set a precedent for future U.S. interventions in countries with valuable resources.
  • The backlash from the international community and Venezuelan citizens could lead to long-term diplomatic and political challenges for the U.S.
  • The potential for increased oil production could impact global energy markets.
  • Future elections could be seen as illegitimate due to US influence.

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