What is happening between the Trump administration and Venezuela?
Asked 1 day ago
Answer
The Trump administration has removed Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela, installed Delcy Rodriguez as interim president, and asserted U.S. control over Venezuela's oil reserves. The U.S. is pressuring for access to oil, planning major investments by American oil companies, and maintaining military and economic leverage. Congressional critics question the legality and motives, while negotiations and uncertainty persist regarding Venezuela's future governance and elections.
Now Playing
Trump administration sets meetings with oil firms on Venezuela: source
- Trump administration to meet U.S. oil executives about Venezuela
- Goal is to boost Venezuelan oil production after Maduro's ouster 11s
- White House and major oil firms did not comment on planned meetings 27s
- Industry executives deny prior talks with administration on Venezuela 42s
- Analysts warn of infrastructure and political challenges in Venezuela 1m 4s
References
Trump's administration plans to meet with U.S. oil executives to discuss boosting Venezuelan oil production after ousting Maduro, aiming to return U.S. oil companies to Venezuela, though industry executives say no such meetings have occurred yet.
More than 48 hours after the U.S. removed Maduro from Venezuela, the administration and top aides offer conflicting statements about next steps, with Trump declaring the U.S. is now in charge of Venezuela and its oil reserves, while other officials emphasize economic pressure rather than occupation.
President Trump emphasized that the U.S. should have total control and access to Venezuelan oil reserves, arguing the U.S. originally built the infrastructure and deserves to reclaim it. Meetings with major oil companies are planned to discuss re-entering Venezuela.
Interim president Rodriguez seeks a balanced relationship with the U.S., proposing cooperation on reopening the embassy, recognizing the government, and possible new elections, while the U.S. supports Rodriguez over opposition leader Machado.
Trump said, "We're dealing with the people that just got sworn in. Don't ask me who's in charge, because I'll give you an answer, and it'll be very controversial. It means we're in charge." He warned interim president Rodriguez must give the U.S. total access to Venezuela's oil reserves or face consequences.
President Trump announced the U.S. will run Venezuela until elections are held; Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated military assets remain poised for further action and the oil quarantine will continue as leverage.
