POLITICS

Trump: US to Run Venezuela After Maduro Capture

PUBLISHED Jan 3, 2026, 12:36 PM ET

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Trump: US to Run Venezuela After Maduro Capture

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 9

Center 89%

Right 11%

Sources: 9

United States — On Saturday U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and transported him, officials said; President Donald Trump announced that the United States will "run" Venezuela until a "safe, proper and judicious" transition occurs. Trump said U.S. oil companies would be allowed to enter to repair infrastructure and produce oil, and he warned other Venezuelan figures they could face similar action. U.S. officials said tankers seized under sanctions preceded the operation. The operation is under U.S. control while legal and diplomatic processes advance. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2019: United States imposes oil sanctions on Venezuela, restricting formal oil trade.
Late 2025: U.S. enforces sanctions and seizes at least two oil tankers tied to Venezuela.
Early 3 January 2026: U.S. military conducts operation capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
3 January 2026: Maduro and his wife placed aboard a U.S. warship bound for New York to face charges.
3 January 2026: President Trump holds press conference, announces U.S. will "run" Venezuela and permit U.S. oil firms to enter.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

United States oil companies and the U.S. government could gain access to Venezuelan energy assets, reconstruction contracts, and increased geopolitical leverage following the operation and planned transitional administration.

Who Impacted

Venezuelan civilians and government institutions suffered immediate disruption, potential rights concerns, and increased political and economic instability after the military operation and leadership removal.

Media Bias