POLITICS

US Asserts Control Over Venezuelan Oil After Raid

PUBLISHED Jan 9, 2026, 12:24 AM ET

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US Asserts Control Over Venezuelan Oil After Raid

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 10

Center 100%

Sources: 10

Washington — U.S. officials announced expanded control over Venezuela's oil and security operations this week after U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro on January 3. President Donald Trump said in interviews Tuesday and Thursday that Washington has seized billions in crude, expects major oil companies to invest in rebuilding Venezuela's energy sector, and plans land strikes against drug cartels. The U.S. Senate voted on Thursday to advance a resolution seeking to restrict further military action without congressional authorization. Independent verification remains limited. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

January 3: U.S. forces seized Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro during an operation.
Early January: U.S. officials report maritime interdictions and oil seizures under sanctions enforcement.
January 9: President Trump gave televised interviews asserting oil control, investment pledges, and anti‑cartel land strikes.
January 9: The U.S. Senate voted 52‑47 to advance a resolution to limit further military action without authorization.
Mid‑January: Venezuelan officials, including Delcy Rodríguez, publicly disputed U.S. claims and asserted domestic authority.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 10
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

U.S. energy firms and allied political actors stand to benefit from secured Venezuelan oil assets, access to contracts, and potential revenue streams pledged at White House meetings.

Who Impacted

Venezuelan citizens, government institutions, and regional stability have suffered disruption, contested sovereignty, and economic uncertainty following the U.S. operation.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 10
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

U.S. energy firms and allied political actors stand to benefit from secured Venezuelan oil assets, access to contracts, and potential revenue streams pledged at White House meetings.

Who Impacted

Venezuelan citizens, government institutions, and regional stability have suffered disruption, contested sovereignty, and economic uncertainty following the U.S. operation.