Story perspectives

Venezuela's Oil Exports Plunge 75% After Maduro's Capture

1/22/2026

Center

Trump Initiates Oil Sales

Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's oil exports have fallen 75%, with ten days of shipments to the U.S. or for domestic use.
China and Cuba, previously major importers, face shortages.
U.S. forces have seized six sanctioned tankers.
U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated oil sales, with first sale valued at about $500 million.
Plans to sell 30–50 million barrels are underway, with proceeds managed by Washington.

Right

Trump Pursues Venezuela Relations

A limited number of U.S. personnel are in Caracas to assess resuming diplomatic relations after Nicolás Maduro's capture.
The U.S. administration plans to reopen the U.S. Embassy and consulates in Venezuela.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez met CIA Director John Ratcliffe to discuss improving U.S.-Venezuela relations, focusing on oil and minerals.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism that the partnership could restore prosperity in Venezuela.

Left

U.S. Forces Capture Maduro

In January 2026, U.S. forces captured Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan President, and the operation caused at least 83 deaths.
Delcy Rodríguez, Nicolás Maduro's vice-president, and her brother Jorge had assured U.S. officials of cooperation post-Maduro, yet refused to actively oust him.
The operation used a controversial sonic weapon, reportedly injuring Venezuelan soldiers.
Public reactions in Latin America were mixed; some supported intervention, others condemned it as imperialism.

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Trump Initiates Oil Sales

Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's oil exports have fallen 75%, with ten days of shipments to the U.S. or for domestic use.
China and Cuba, previously major importers, face shortages.
U.S. forces have seized six sanctioned tankers.
U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated oil sales, with first sale valued at about $500 million.
Plans to sell 30–50 million barrels are underway, with proceeds managed by Washington.

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