Story perspectives

Venezuela Seeks U.S. Military Aid for Oil Tanker Recovery

1/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's interim leader, sought U.S. military assistance to recover an unauthorized tanker, marking the first U.S.–Venezuela military cooperation since Maduro's capture.
The tanker carried half a million barrels of oil owned by Alex Saab and departed after Maduro's downfall.
Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA), the state oil company, said it did not receive payment for the crude.
U.S. officials, including U.S. President Donald Trump, confirmed the tanker’s return was coordinated with Rodríguez.

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Story summary

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's interim leader, sought U.S. military assistance to recover an unauthorized tanker, marking the first U.S.–Venezuela military cooperation since Maduro's capture.
The tanker carried half a million barrels of oil owned by Alex Saab and departed after Maduro's downfall.
Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA), the state oil company, said it did not receive payment for the crude.
U.S. officials, including U.S. President Donald Trump, confirmed the tanker’s return was coordinated with Rodríguez.