President Donald Trump said the United States will be “very strongly involved” in Venezuela’s oil industry following a U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Speaking at a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump outlined U.S. control over seized Venezuelan oil, future American investment, and the status of sanctions.
What did Trump announce on Venezuela’s oil?
Trump said the United States would take an active role in Venezuela’s energy sector, citing American expertise and capacity. He stated that the U.S. has “the greatest oil companies in the world” and confirmed they would be heavily involved in Venezuela moving forward. The remarks came hours after the administration announced the capture of Maduro in a U.S. military operation.
What did Trump say about rebuilding Venezuela’s oil infrastructure?
Trump described Venezuela’s oil industry as a “bust” caused by mismanagement. He said American companies would enter the country to spend billions of dollars repairing and rebuilding oil infrastructure. The comments framed U.S. involvement as an investment-led effort focused on restoring production capacity.
What happens to the seized Venezuelan oil?
Trump declared that the United States would retain control of Venezuelan oil recently seized by U.S. naval forces. He said the oil could be sold, stored, or added to the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve. No timeline or quantities were specified during the press conference.
Why did Trump claim the U.S. has asset rights in Venezuela?
Trump repeated claims that Venezuela had previously “stolen” U.S. oil, land, and energy rights. He said the United States “wants it back,” presenting the seizure and future involvement as a recovery of assets. The administration did not release additional documentation during the briefing.
What did Trump say about China and global access to the oil?
Asked about China’s concerns, Trump said the U.S. would not let “somebody else take over” Venezuela’s oil. He added that the United States would “allow people to have oil” and said he anticipated no problems with Chinese President Xi Jinping. No changes to existing export permissions were announced.
Does the Venezuela oil embargo remain in place?
The Trump administration said the existing oil embargo on Venezuela remains in effect during the transition period. Officials did not specify exemptions or adjustments at the press conference.
FAQs
Q: Where did Trump make the statements?
A: At a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida.
Q: Did Trump announce an end to sanctions?
A: No. The administration said the oil embargo remains in place.
Q: Will the seized oil be sold immediately?
A: Trump said it could be sold, stored, or added to the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, without details.
Q: Are U.S. companies confirmed to operate in Venezuela?
A: Trump said American oil companies will be heavily involved and invest billions, without naming firms.
