The US has triggered global shockwaves after President Donald Trump claimed that American forces seized Venezuela’s oil following the dramatic capture of President Nicolas Maduro.
The explosive statement, delivered in an Oval Office interview, has sparked intense debate, diplomatic concern, and questions about the legality and implications of Washington’s actions.
Trump suggested that Venezuelan crude oil is now under American control and is already flowing into US refineries, signalling a dramatic shift in geopolitical power in Latin America.
Did the US Seize Venezuela’s Oil?
Speaking to the New York Post, Trump made a blunt claim about Venezuela’s oil reserves. “I’m not allowed to tell you,” Trump said. “But let’s put it this way, they don’t have any oil. We take the oil.”
The US president claimed that seven tankers carrying Venezuelan oil were recently seized, though he declined to share their locations. He added that the oil is already being refined inside the United States.
“The oil’s coming into the refineries in Houston, in various places,” he said. Trump also revealed plans to sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil at market prices, signalling a large-scale commercial move.
What Happened After Maduro’s Capture?
Trump’s remarks came weeks after US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, triggering a political shake-up in Caracas. Following Maduro’s removal, Delcy Rodriguez stepped in as interim leader, creating uncertainty about Venezuela’s political and economic future.
Since then, speculation has grown around control of the country’s vast oil wealth, which represents Venezuela’s most valuable national asset. Trump’s comments now appear to confirm that the US has moved swiftly to secure energy resources.
Is This Oil Now US Property?
Trump’s comments suggest the US is treating seized Venezuelan oil as an asset it can move and sell. He said the oil is “coming into the refineries in Houston, in various places.”
The move raises questions about international law, ownership, and how revenue from oil sales will be shared. Venezuela’s interim leadership says some funds have already flowed into accounts intended to support the economy.
According to Venezuelan officials, the country has received $300 million from oil sales tied to the new arrangement, though details remain limited.
‘We Are Running the Oil’: Trump’s Bold Declaration
Trump went further by claiming direct American involvement in managing Venezuela’s oil production.
“We are running the oil in Venezuela,” Trump said. “Venezuela is going to get some, and we’re going to get some. Then we have the big oil companies going in, and they’ll be taking so much oil that Venezuela will make more money than they’ve ever made before.”
He added that major US energy companies are entering Venezuela and expanding oil extraction operations. Trump also confirmed discussions with oil executives about $100 billion worth of investments in Venezuela’s energy sector.
Why Venezuela’s Oil Matters to the US?
Venezuela holds the largest proven oil reserves in the world, surpassing even Saudi Arabia. Control over these resources provides enormous economic and geopolitical leverage.
For Washington, gaining access to Venezuelan oil strengthens energy security, reduces dependence on Middle Eastern supply routes, and reshapes influence across Latin America. Analysts say Trump’s move could redefine US dominance in the Western Hemisphere’s energy market.
