A highly confidential CIA assessment warned of a wider conflict in Venezuela if the U.S. supported the democratic opposition after the removal of Nicolás Maduro. The assessment, commissioned by senior policymakers, influenced President Trump’s decision to authorize Operation Absolute Resolve, which aimed to seize Maduro. However, instead of backing the opposition, Trump aligned with Maduro’s chosen vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, who was subsequently named interim president. This decision, according to experts, stemmed from a desire to avoid the mistakes made during the Iraq invasion and potentially an attempt to work with elements of the existing government.
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In a recent announcement, President Trump stated Venezuela would provide between 30 and 50 million barrels of oil to the U.S., with proceeds benefiting both nations. The White House is also organizing a meeting with U.S. oil executives to discuss increasing American investment in Venezuela’s oil industry. Meanwhile, officials have reported casualties from a U.S. military operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, and the Venezuelan government is investigating the deaths. Despite political tensions and questions about oil production, discussions regarding the future of Venezuelan oil and its implications continue.
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Despite the Trump administration’s celebration of the successful capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, international entities like the United Nations have voiced concerns, citing potential repercussions for global safety. Domestically, these actions have triggered calls for President Trump’s impeachment, with Democratic lawmakers and figures like California State Senator Scott Wiener denouncing the operation as illegal. Rep. Delia C. Ramirez of Illinois and others echoed these sentiments, labeling the operation a “kidnapping” and a violation of international law. Some, like Rep. Dan Goldman, allege the operation’s true motive involves controlling Venezuela’s oil resources, while the White House defends the operation as lawful.
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John Q. Hosedrinker