In a stunning declaration that signals a complete overhaul of US policy towards Caracas, President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will take direct control of Venezuela's massive oil reserves. The announcement, made during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate on January 4, 2026, outlines a bold plan involving American oil giants and a new global sales strategy targeting even Washington's geopolitical rivals.
A Dramatic Shift in Energy Policy
President Trump framed the move as a major strategic and economic opportunity for the United States. He stated that leading US oil corporations are prepared to invest billions of dollars into repairing and modernising Venezuela's severely damaged oil infrastructure. This follows the reported capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, an operation Trump hailed as "brilliant." The plan represents a dramatic departure from previous sanctions-focused approaches, moving towards direct physical and economic control of the South American nation's primary resource.
Global Sales Strategy: No Fear of Rivals
The most provocative detail of the new strategy involves the destination of the oil. Trump explicitly stated that the United States plans to sell large quantities of Venezuelan oil to other countries, acting as a dominant supplier in international markets. When questioned about potential backlash from nations like China, Russia, and Iran—all of which have had significant ties to the Maduro regime—Trump dismissed concerns. He indicated the US would simply operate as a major commercial oil supplier, willing to do business with these global powers despite existing tensions.
Context of Military Action and Regional Turmoil
This energy policy shift comes amidst reports of significant US military involvement in Venezuela. Earlier reports detailed an emergency in Venezuela with Maduro activating a defence command and sending troops as US forces reportedly invaded. Other headlines suggested US Marines had arrived in Caracas and that Maduro had been captured by Delta Force operatives and flown out of the country. The situation on the ground appears to be one of intense transition, with the new oil plan serving as the proposed economic cornerstone of a post-Maduro Venezuela under heavy US influence.
The announcement is set to redraw the geopolitical map of energy trade. By seizing control of one of the world's largest oil reserves and openly offering it to global buyers, including strategic competitors, the Trump administration is challenging traditional alliances and market dynamics. The move is likely to have profound implications for global oil prices, diplomatic relations, and the balance of power in Latin America.
