Trump promises oil executives ‘total safety’ if they invest in Venezuela

Following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela released a "large number" of political prisoners, including opposition candidate Enrique Marquez and several foreign nationals, on January 9, 2026. The releases occurred after Maduro's former deputy, Delcy Rodriguez, became interim leader with the backing of U.S. President Donald Trump. The move is seen as a concession to the U.S., which seeks access to Venezuela's oil reserves. While the exact number and identities of those released were not immediately disclosed, rights groups estimate over 800 political prisoners remain in Venezuelan jails. The White House credited Trump's leverage for securing the prisoners' freedom.

Donald Trump stated he will meet with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado sometime next week. This announcement comes after Trump's recent actions in Venezuela, including the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. While initially dismissing Machado, Trump now anticipates meeting her. The interim Venezuelan government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, has begun releasing political prisoners, potentially as a concession to the U.S. Trump also reiterated his stance on combating drug cartels, threatening land strikes in Latin America, a continuation of actions that began in September. He acknowledged that it will take time for Venezuela to be in a place where they can hold elections.

In January 2026, the US government, under President Donald Trump, declared its intention to control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely to force political changes in Venezuela. This announcement followed the abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and a deal for Venezuela to turn over a significant amount of sanctioned oil to the US. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the US needs leverage over Venezuelan oil. Oil company executives are scheduled to meet with President Trump to discuss potential investments in Venezuela. While experts suggest the US government has the power to intervene, geopolitical challenges exist, particularly with the rise of China as a global power, potentially limiting US influence compared to previous interventions like in Iraq.

El Helicoide, located in Caracas, Venezuela, was originally conceived as a drive-through shopping mall in the 1950s. However, it became a notorious prison and symbol of state repression under Nicolás Maduro's authoritarian rule. Human rights groups have described it as a "torture center" where political prisoners were held. In January 2026, Venezuela's interim authorities began releasing political prisoners from El Helicoide and other jails, following Maduro's capture by U.S. troops. While the releases signal a potential shift under the new government, the future of El Helicoide remains uncertain, as authorities have not announced its closure.

The Venezuelan government has begun releasing political prisoners, including Spanish nationals and prominent activist Rocío San Miguel, as a goodwill gesture. This action follows the US seizure of President Nicolás Maduro to face drug trafficking charges in New York. Jorge Rodríguez, head of the National Assembly, announced the release of a "significant number" of prisoners in the interest of national unity. While the exact number of released prisoners remains unclear, hundreds are still detained. Human rights organizations have cautiously welcomed the news. The interim government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, appears more cooperative with the US since Maduro's capture, with plans to close the notorious El Helicoide prison where many political opponents were held.

Following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro, Donald Trump urged oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's oil infrastructure. At a White House roundtable, Trump promised "total safety" and security for these investments, emphasizing the opportunity for American oil companies to extract resources. He stated that the investment would come from the oil companies themselves, not the US government, and that the US would benefit from lower energy prices. While some oil executives expressed support and willingness to rebuild Venezuela's oil infrastructure, analysts remain skeptical about the speed of investment. Trump also warned that other companies were ready to take their place if they were not interested in the rebuilding efforts.

President Trump met with oil executives in Washington on Friday to encourage investment in Venezuela, following the recent seizure of Nicolás Maduro. Trump has suggested investments of at least $100 billion, but no immediate commitments were made. ExxonMobil's CEO stated that Venezuela is currently "un-investable" due to past asset seizures and instability. While executives acknowledged Venezuela's potential due to its vast oil reserves, they emphasized the need for significant changes within the country and a welcoming environment from the government and its people. Trump acknowledged past issues, like the nationalization of assets, but said his administration would work to strike a "deal" with companies to revive the industry.

According to reports, Donald Trump plans to leverage Venezuela's vast oil reserves to control oil production in the Western Hemisphere, aiming to lower US oil prices to around $50 a barrel. The strategy involves increasing Venezuela's oil output and restricting access for Russia and China. The US has already laid claim to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude and seized a Russian oil tanker linked to Venezuela. Trump stated that Venezuela would use oil sale profits exclusively to purchase American-made goods. Experts question the feasibility of revitalizing Venezuela's oil industry to achieve the desired production increase.

In January 2026, the US announced its intention to indefinitely control Venezuelan oil. This decision gives the US authority over the country's oil wealth and the ability to dictate how profits are spent. In response, Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, stated that any oil partnerships with the US must ultimately benefit the Venezuelan people. The announcement and subsequent response highlight ongoing tensions regarding control and distribution of Venezuela's oil resources. The location of the oil fields and refineries were not mentioned in the article. The reasons behind the US decision were also not stated.

Following a US raid that ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, President Trump indicated that US involvement in Venezuela could last for years. In an interview with the New York Times, Trump stated that the US would "oversee" the country, but did not specify when or if elections would be held. He also said the US would control Venezuelan oil sales "indefinitely" and would be "taking oil" from the country, with the interim government using proceeds to buy US goods. Trump acknowledged Delcy Rodríguez as Venezuela's interim leader, stating she is in constant communication with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and is cooperating with US demands. Despite expectations of opposition leaders returning, Trump dismissed María Corina Machado's leadership potential.

According to a news report published on January 8, 2026, US oil companies ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips have been lobbying for regime change in Venezuela for years. The report alleges that Donald Trump informed these companies before deploying the military against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The article suggests the motivation behind Trump's actions in Venezuela was related to the country's oil reserves. The location of these events is Venezuela and the United States. The report implies that the US's interest in Venezuelan oil is a key factor driving US foreign policy in the region.

Following the U.S. abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January 2026, uncertainty surrounds Venezuela's economic future. The U.S. announced it will control Venezuelan oil sales "indefinitely," raising concerns about revenue for Caracas. The U.S. plans to market sanctioned oil, holding proceeds in U.S. Treasury accounts to be shared between the two countries. A deal was also struck for Venezuela to export up to $2 billion worth of crude oil to the U.S. In the long term, the U.S. may ease sanctions on Venezuelan oil imports and equipment. The impact on Venezuela's economy hinges on sanctions relief, relations with the U.S., and control of oil revenues, especially considering that nearly 80% of Venezuela's budget was allocated to social spending.

Delcy Rodriguez has become Venezuela's interim president following the kidnapping of Nicolas Maduro, according to a news report published on January 6, 2026. As acting president, Rodriguez faces the challenge of navigating domestic political pressures within Venezuela while also addressing demands from the United States. The news report aims to provide background information and context about Rodriguez's role and position as the country's new leader during this period of transition. Her leadership is occurring amidst a complex political situation following Maduro's abduction. The report highlights the key aspects of Rodriguez's background and the challenges she faces in leading Venezuela.

Donald Trump suggested US taxpayers could reimburse oil companies for investments in Venezuelan infrastructure to increase oil production after Nicolás Maduro's potential removal. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is reportedly planning meetings with Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and ExxonMobil to discuss increasing Venezuelan production, a key goal for the Trump administration. The administration hopes to entice US oil companies back into Venezuela after the government took control of US-led energy operations nearly two decades ago. However, reports indicate that the three largest US oil companies have not yet had conversations with the White House about operating in Venezuela. Restoring Venezuelan oil production, which has significantly decreased, will require years of work and billions of dollars of investment.

Following the capture and extradition of Nicolás Maduro to the U.S., his son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, publicly pledged "unconditional support" to Delcy Rodríguez, the newly sworn-in interim president of Venezuela. Maduro Guerra condemned the U.S. action as a "kidnapping" and a threat to global stability. Rodríguez, formerly Maduro's vice president, was sworn in on Monday and has vowed to work with the Trump administration despite objecting to the military action. Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by U.S. forces in Caracas and are being held in New York on narco-terrorism charges. The U.S. military operation has drawn both praise and condemnation internationally, with China and Russia criticizing the action.

Donald Trump predicts that US oil companies will invest billions in Venezuela to revitalize its oil production within 18 months after Nicolás Maduro's removal. However, industry experts are skeptical, citing the need for US government guarantees to offset the high risks and costs associated with rebuilding Venezuela's damaged oil infrastructure. Major US oil companies like ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron have not confirmed any investment plans. Analysts estimate it could take at least three years to significantly increase production, with initial efforts focused on securing contracts and reconstruction before any meaningful output increase. Experts suggest that while interest in Venezuelan oil exists, the appetite for heavy investment remains low due to the country's uncertain future.

Following a hypothetical military operation removing Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela, President Trump claims US oil companies could be operational there within 18 months. He suggests the companies would be reimbursed for their investments by the US government or through revenue generated. Trump believes increased Venezuelan oil production would benefit the US by lowering oil prices. However, analysts are skeptical, citing the need for a stable government, the high costs involved, and the time required to restore Venezuela's oil output. Chevron, the only US firm currently operating in Venezuela, stated it remains focused on employee safety and compliance with regulations. Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves, but its production has declined significantly.

Venezuela faces a potential economic collapse in 2026 due to a U.S. blockade on its energy exports. Internal government projections estimate a 70% drop in oil production this year, crippling the country's primary revenue source. The U.S. is targeting tankers carrying Venezuelan crude, paralyzing exports and forcing the state oil company, PDVSA, to use storage tanks as temporary holding. Storage capacity is expected to run out by the end of January, leading to a rapid production decline from 1.2 million to under 300,000 barrels per day. This drastic reduction would severely limit Venezuela's ability to import goods and maintain essential services. The U.S. Secretary of State stated that sanctions would remain until Venezuela opens its oil industry to foreign investment.

In January 2026, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was arraigned in a New York court after being abducted by U.S. special forces in Venezuela. Maduro pleaded not guilty to federal charges, including narcoterrorism, while claiming he is a "prisoner of war." He argued he is innocent and still the legitimate president of Venezuela. Other Venezuelan leaders initially echoed this position, but Maduro's deputy, Delcy Rodriguez, who has since taken over as interim president, offered to cooperate with the Trump administration. The Trump administration has framed the abduction as a law enforcement operation, while Maduro's defense is based on the rights afforded to prisoners of war. Maduro's wife, Cilia Flores, also pleaded not guilty as a codefendant.

Nicolás Maduro, the ousted president of Venezuela, pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan courthouse to federal charges of narco-terrorism and cocaine importation after being captured in Caracas by U.S. Army Delta Force commandos. Maduro, who maintains he is still the legitimate president, was brought to the United States along with his wife, Cilia Flores, who was also indicted. His lawyer is expected to challenge the legality of the arrest, citing Maduro's status as head of a sovereign government and potential violations of international law regarding immunity for foreign leaders. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described Maduro as a fugitive from American justice, framing the operation as primarily a law enforcement matter. The capture of Maduro leaves the future of Venezuela uncertain.

The Trump administration is reportedly planning meetings with US oil company executives to discuss increasing Venezuelan oil production following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro. These meetings are considered crucial for re-establishing US oil company operations in Venezuela, which were nationalized nearly two decades ago. However, Exxon Mobil, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron have stated they have not yet had discussions with the administration, contradicting Trump's claims. Boosting Venezuelan oil production would require significant investment and time, despite the country holding the world's largest oil reserves and having crude oil compatible with US refineries. The White House has not commented on the upcoming meetings.

Following Nicolas Maduro's arrest by U.S. forces and arraignment in a New York court, Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela's interim president on Monday. Maduro pleaded not guilty to U.S. charges of drug trafficking and terrorism, insisting he was still the legitimate president and a "prisoner of war." The swearing-in ceremony in Venezuela's parliament included demands for Maduro's release. The U.S. defended its actions at the UN, citing Maduro's illegitimacy and the need to secure Venezuela's energy reserves. Venezuela's UN ambassador condemned the U.S. operation as an "illegitimate armed attack."

Following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, Delcy Rodríguez, a longtime political confidante, became Venezuela's interim leader. The Venezuelan Supreme Court declared her acting president after Maduro's removal. Rodríguez, 56, has Marxist roots and entered Venezuelan politics after the 2002 coup attempt against Hugo Chávez. She rose through government ranks under both Chávez and Maduro, holding positions such as communication minister, foreign affairs minister, and vice president. She also took on responsibility for the country's finances as the economy minister. While she has fostered a shift towards a more free-market economy and protected the oil industry, Venezuela continues to struggle with hyperinflation. She now faces the challenge of navigating relations with the U.S. and a distrustful Venezuelan public.

Nicolás Maduro, the ousted Venezuelan leader, appeared in a Manhattan federal court on Monday, January 5, 2026, and pleaded not guilty to federal charges including narco-terrorism and cocaine importation. Maduro, who was captured in Caracas on Saturday by Army Delta Force commandos and transported to the U.S., claimed he was "kidnapped" and declared himself a "prisoner of war." Despite his protests, Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein only confirmed his identity. Maduro's lawyer indicated they may challenge the legality of the arrest and the U.S. government's refusal to recognize him as Venezuela's legitimate president. Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were indicted, leaving Venezuela's future uncertain. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Maduro was a fugitive from American justice.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, pleaded not guilty to drug and weapon charges in a New York City courtroom on Monday. Maduro, who claims he was kidnapped from his home in Caracas on January 3rd, declared himself a "prisoner of war" during the arraignment. The couple was arrested by US forces in Venezuela on Saturday in a surprise operation involving strikes on military bases. Dressed in jail attire, Maduro and Flores listened to the proceedings through Spanish translation headphones. The 40-minute hearing was held in the same courtroom where Sean "Diddy" Combs was previously tried.

On Monday, demonstrators gathered outside a New York City federal courthouse to protest and celebrate the US capture of Nicolás Maduro, the forcibly removed president of Venezuela. Maduro was in court pleading not guilty to US criminal charges related to international drug trafficking and weapons charges. One group of protesters, including Venezuelan migrants, celebrated Maduro's detention as justice for the suffering he allegedly caused, leading to mass emigration and economic hardship. Across the street, another group, including an activist from the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, protested against US imperialism and intervention in Venezuela, citing the desire of Venezuelans to control their own destiny. The protests, separated by police, highlighted the divided opinions on Maduro's capture and the US role in Venezuela.

Following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the U.S., acting President Delcy Rodríguez shifted from a confrontational stance to a more diplomatic one. On Sunday, January 4, 2026, Rodríguez invited the U.S. government to engage in a cooperative agenda focused on shared development and coexistence, despite previously accusing the U.S. of invading Venezuela. This statement followed a fiery speech where she demanded Maduro's return after his capture. While the U.S. President Trump threatened Rodríguez if she didn't "do what's right," her recent statement notably omitted any demand for Maduro's release. The Venezuelan Supreme Court declared Rodríguez the country's acting president.

Following the removal of President Nicolas Maduro from power on January 3, 2026, Venezuelans are experiencing a mix of hope and anxiety. The event, triggered by the United States amidst escalating tensions, was initially met with celebration by some, who viewed it as the end of a long period of socialist rule marked by economic mismanagement and repression. However, this jubilation has been tempered by uncertainty about the nation's future. The removal of Maduro, who had been in power since succeeding Hugo Chavez in 2013, follows a disputed 2024 election and subsequent crackdown on dissent. Venezuelans now grapple with the unknown as they consider the potential implications of this significant political shift.

In January 2026, U.S. forces conducted a military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. President Trump announced the U.S. intended to "run" Venezuela following the capture. Maduro was transported to New York City to face federal drug and weapon charges. The operation, ordered by Trump, involved 150 aircraft and ground troops, encountering significant resistance and resulting in at least 40 deaths. The Trump administration framed the mission as a law enforcement operation, bypassing typical congressional oversight for military actions. The intervention has sparked both protests and celebrations in the U.S.

Following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces in Caracas, Venezuelans are reacting with a mix of hope and worry. The U.S. accuses Maduro of running a "narco-terrorist" regime, allegations he denies, and intends to hold him in New York City on drug trafficking and weapons charges. While some Venezuelans express gratitude towards the U.S. for removing Maduro, citing a renewed sense of hope, others fear the uncertainty of the future. Supporters of Maduro have rallied in Caracas, demanding his release and condemning the U.S. action as a kidnapping. The U.S. plans to manage Venezuela, including its oil reserves, until a replacement for Maduro is established, leaving the country's future unclear.

Satellite imagery reveals damage to Venezuela's largest military base, Fuerte Tiuna, following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro on Saturday. The images, released by Vantor, a space technology company, show that at least five buildings within the Caracas-based complex were destroyed. The damage also includes a gate and security building located in a wooded area near the compound. The imagery shows cargo containers and military vehicles near the destroyed buildings, but their contents are unknown. Fuerte Tiuna, built into a mountainside south of Caracas, is a military complex with fortifications and roads. The imagery provides visual evidence of the impact of the operation at the Venezuelan military base.

On January 4, 2026, the U.S. launched a coordinated air and ground incursion into Venezuela, targeting Caracas and La Guaira. The operation, involving over 150 military drones, fighter planes, and bombers, aimed to remove Nicolás Maduro and establish a U.S.-led interim administration. Residents captured the strikes on cellphones, documenting low-flying helicopters and explosions. The New York Times verified videos showing the attack, which targeted infrastructure in the capital and the strategic port city of La Guaira. The surprise attack followed months of increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and significantly altered the region's political landscape.

A video circulating in news feeds purportedly shows Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in US custody on January 4, 2026. The video allegedly depicts Maduro arriving at a Drug Enforcement Agency detention center in New York. According to the news feed, US forces seized Maduro and his wife in a raid on Caracas. The stated reason for the seizure is to bring Maduro to the US to face drug-trafficking charges. The authenticity of the video and the details surrounding the alleged arrest remain unconfirmed.

Explosions were reported in Caracas, Venezuela, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, with the cause of the blasts currently unknown. The incident follows months of increasing pressure from the United States on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the U.S. government accuses of leading a "narco-terrorist" state and controlling drug trafficking groups. The U.S. military has increased its presence in the Caribbean since late August, engaging in operations against vessels allegedly involved in drug smuggling. These actions have resulted in numerous deaths and have been criticized as potential extrajudicial killings. The situation is ongoing, and further updates are expected.

In January 2026, Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as Venezuela's interim president, according to the U.S. Following this, President Trump stated that Rodríguez would cooperate with the U.S. in governing Venezuela. However, Rodríguez quickly refuted this in a televised address, condemning the U.S. as an illegal invader and affirming Venezuela's determination to remain free. She emphasized that the U.S. seeks regime change to seize Venezuela's resources. Rodríguez delivered her address alongside Venezuela’s National Defense Council, signaling a unified front against U.S. intervention. She and other Venezuelan leaders continue to recognize Nicolás Maduro as the legitimate president, defying Trump's demands.

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's Vice President, was sworn in as interim leader in January 2026. She is known for her leftist background as the daughter of a Marxist guerrilla and her rapid rise in Nicolás Maduro's government. Despite her leftist credentials, Rodríguez has cultivated relationships with Venezuela's business community and foreign investors, spearheading market-friendly economic reforms after the country's economic crisis. While President Trump stated that Rodríguez had been sworn in as Venezuela’s new president, Rodríguez and Maduro's supporters maintain that Maduro is still the legitimate leader. She rose to prominence after Maduro became president in 2013, holding positions such as communications minister and foreign affairs minister.

The US captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, but his inner circle appears to have survived the strikes on the country. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, next in line for the presidency, and other top officials, including Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, issued defiant statements and made public appearances after the attacks. Rodríguez's location was unclear, with reports suggesting she was in Russia at the time of the strikes. The survival of these officials indicates that Venezuela's government remains functional, at least for now. The US intervention raises questions about what happens next, with potential power struggles between military units, rival factions, and guerrilla groups. The Venezuelan opposition's ambitions to exercise power also remain uncertain, with opposition leader María Corina Machado and retired diplomat Edmundo González, considered the legitimate winner of the 2024 presidential election, vying for influence.

A video shows the aftermath of explosions that occurred across Venezuela early Saturday morning, January 3, 2026. The video was filmed in the port city of La Guaira. Venezuelan President Maduro has declared a state of emergency in response to the explosions. Maduro is accusing the United States of orchestrating the strikes. The extent of the damage and the specific targets of the explosions are not detailed in the report.

On January 3, 2026, explosions and smoke were reported in Caracas, Venezuela. The events occurred amid heightened tensions between Venezuela and the United States. Power outages were also reported near a key military base in the capital city. There were also reports of low-flying aircraft over Caracas. Al Jazeera reported on the situation, with Lucia Newman providing details as they became available. The cause of the explosions and the extent of the damage remain unclear.