Trump signals years-long US control over Venezuela

Thursday 08 January 2026 - 13:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Trump signals years-long US control over Venezuela

President Donald Trump stated Wednesday evening that American oversight of Venezuela and its oil reserves will extend far beyond a few months, potentially spanning several years following last weekend's military operation that captured President Nicolás Maduro.

When pressed by the New York Times on the duration of U.S. control, Trump replied, "Only time will tell." Asked to specify three months, six months, or a year, he responded, "I'd say much longer."

These remarks come as the Senate prepares to vote Thursday on a bipartisan war powers resolution that would block further military action in Venezuela without congressional approval. Sponsored by Senators Tim Kaine and Rand Paul, the measure faces uncertain prospects despite support from both Democrats and Republicans.

Trump announced Tuesday that Venezuela will transfer 30 to 50 million barrels of sanctioned oil to the U.S., valued at about $2.5 billion at current market prices. He vowed to personally oversee the proceeds "to ensure they benefit the Venezuelan people and the United States."

This formalizes an agreement with Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro's former vice president who was sworn in Monday as interim leader. Trump's decision to recognize Rodríguez over opposition figure María Corina Machado 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner whose coalition prevailed in Venezuela's 2024 election drew fire from opposition supporters. "She has neither support nor respect within the military or the country," Trump said of Machado.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined a three-phase strategy this week: stabilize via oil sales control, reboot with Western energy firms' access, and eventually transition to new governance. Rubio offered no election timeline.

The January 3-4 military operation capturing Maduro and his wife resulted in at least 70 deaths, per Venezuelan authorities, including 24 security force members and 32 Cuban officers. Seven U.S. troops suffered injuries, with two still recovering. Trump noted the interim Venezuelan government "gives us everything we deem necessary," though Rodríguez publicly decried the U.S. action as a "kidnapping" while expressing cooperation willingness.