US President Donald Trump has declared that Washington will exert decisive influence over Venezuela’s interim leadership and take long-term control of the country’s oil sales following the removal of President Nicolas Maduro.
The announcement marks an aggressive assertion of American authority over the oil-rich South American nation, even as Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez publicly denies that any foreign power is governing Caracas.
Over the weekend, US special forces carried out a rapid operation that resulted in the arrest of Maduro and his wife. The pair were flown to New York to face drug-related charges, a move Trump described as part of what he calls the “Donroe Doctrine,” signaling renewed US dominance across the Western Hemisphere.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the United States now holds “maximum leverage” over Venezuela’s interim authorities. She stated that Washington remains in close coordination with the new leadership and that key decisions will continue to be shaped by the United States.
Trump has openly said that the US will effectively “run” Venezuela, home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves. Despite these claims, there are no American troops stationed inside the country. Instead, the administration appears to be enforcing its position through a naval blockade and the threat of further military action.
So far, the administration has signaled support for Delcy Rodriguez while sidelining opposition figures, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado. However, details of Washington’s long-term strategy remain limited.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio pushed back against criticism from lawmakers, insisting the administration is not acting without a plan. Central to that plan, according to Trump, is an agreement under which Venezuela would transfer between 30 and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States for resale.
On Wednesday, Trump said that Venezuela would be required to use oil revenues exclusively to purchase American-made products, including agricultural goods, machinery, medical equipment, and energy infrastructure.
Rubio outlined a second phase focused on economic recovery, where US and Western companies would gain access to Venezuela’s market while efforts begin toward national reconciliation.
Venezuela’s state oil company confirmed it is in discussions with the United States regarding oil sales under existing commercial arrangements. However, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright suggested Washington’s involvement would extend far beyond the short term, stating that the US plans to market Venezuela’s crude oil indefinitely.
Trump is scheduled to meet with executives from major US oil companies to discuss potential investments in Venezuela’s deteriorating energy facilities. While no formal commitments have been announced, the White House describes the talks as exploratory, highlighting what it calls significant commercial opportunities.
The United States further demonstrated its authority by seizing two oil tankers, including one linked to Russian interests. Moscow condemned the move, but US officials argued the vessel was operating under a false flag and had been deemed stateless.
