Former US President Donald Trump has made a significant statement regarding oil seized from Venezuela, indicating he would decide its fate if he returns to power. The comments come amidst ongoing tensions between the United States and the South American nation, whose leader, Nicolas Maduro, has responded with a characteristically defiant stance.
Trump's Direct Comments on Venezuelan Assets
In a recent development, Donald Trump addressed the issue of Venezuelan oil assets that have been seized under US sanctions. Trump explicitly stated, 'Will keep or sell it,' outlining a pragmatic approach to handling the contested resource. This declaration highlights the potential policy direction concerning Venezuela should Trump secure another term in office. The statement, made on 23 December 2025, reaffirms his administration's previous hardline position against the Maduro government.
Maduro's Defiant Response and Call for Non-Interference
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, however, appears unshaken by the remarks from the former US leader. Sources indicate Maduro seems unperturbed or at least defiant in his stance. In a clear retort, he has emphasized that every national leader should primarily attend to the internal affairs of their own country. This response underscores Venezuela's long-standing position against what it perceives as foreign interference, particularly from the United States. Maduro's defiance is a continuation of his government's posture throughout years of economic sanctions and political pressure.
Implications for Bilateral Relations and Global Oil Markets
The exchange signals no thaw in the frosty relations between the two nations. Trump's 'keep or sell' stance points to a continuation of using economic assets as leverage. The situation has several potential consequences:
- Economic Pressure: The potential sale of seized oil could further strain Venezuela's economy, which is heavily reliant on petroleum exports.
- Political Standoff: Maduro's call for non-interference is unlikely to alter the US strategy, setting the stage for continued diplomatic friction.
- Market Uncertainty: Any large-scale sale of seized oil could introduce volatility into global energy markets, affecting prices.
The core issue remains the political and economic struggle between the US government and the administration of Nicolas Maduro. With Trump openly discussing the disposition of seized national assets and Maduro refusing to back down, the path forward for US-Venezuela relations looks fraught with challenges. The world will be watching how this dynamic evolves, especially in the context of global energy security and regional politics in Latin America.
