Trump Says the U.S. Will Take a Leading Role Following Changes in Venezuela’s Leadership

January 7, 2026 by Nadia

According to Trump, allowing major U.S. oil companies to operate in Venezuela would accelerate reconstruction, create economic growth, and generate revenue that could benefit the Venezuelan population.

Trump presented this approach as a pragmatic solution rather than an ideological one. He argued that private-sector expertise and capital were essential to restoring production capacity and modernizing facilities.

While he did not outline specific contracts or regulatory frameworks, he suggested that such arrangements would be structured to ensure profitability while supporting national recovery.

At the same time, Trump made clear that security considerations would remain paramount. He warned that the United States was prepared to take additional military action if threats emerged during the transition period.

This assertion appeared aimed at deterring resistance from remaining Maduro loyalists or armed groups that might challenge U.S. control or disrupt oil operations.

Trump’s comments also touched on the geopolitical dimension of Venezuela’s crisis. Over the years, Venezuela has developed close economic and political ties with countries such as China, Russia, and Iran.