U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States will, with immediate effect, assume control over Venezuela’s oil reserves. The announcement was made in a press statement on January 3, 2026, following what Trump described as the successful capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
According to Trump, the decision to take over Venezuela’s oil sector is intended to stabilize the country during what he called a transitional period and to ensure that the nation’s natural resources are no longer used for corruption or criminal activity. He stated that U.S. oil companies will be deployed to manage production and infrastructure, adding that revenues generated from the oil reserves would be used “to benefit the people of Venezuela.”
Trump said the move follows the capture of Maduro, whom he accused of facilitating international drug trafficking. He reiterated that Maduro will face justice in the United States on charges related to drug facilitation, arguing that his removal marks the end of what he described as a narco-backed regime.
“The era of using Venezuela’s oil to fund crime and terror is over,” Trump said, adding that U.S. oversight would remain in place until Venezuela returns to what he described as a stable democratic system.
The president warned that if remnants of the current government attempt to continue what he referred to as “Maduro’s model of governance,” the United States could take further action. He emphasized that Washington would closely monitor political developments in the country, including institutional reforms and the organization of future elections.
Trump also linked the move to broader U.S. security concerns, stating that Maduro’s leadership had contributed to the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. He claimed that the operation would significantly disrupt drug trafficking networks and prevent further harm to American citizens.
In his remarks, Trump praised U.S. military personnel involved in the operation, commending their professionalism and stating that the mission was carried out without civilian casualties. He described the action as a demonstration of U.S. resolve and capability, asserting that “only the United States could carry out such an operation.”
The announcement is expected to generate significant international reaction, particularly concerning issues of sovereignty, international law, and regional stability. Observers say the decision could have far-reaching political and economic implications for Venezuela, Latin America, and global energy markets.
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