Story perspectives

Trump's Venezuela Strategy: Corporate Ties and Maduro's Capture

3/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

In March 2026, reports said U.S. President Donald Trump relied on Ali Moshiri to influence a Venezuela operation leading to Nicolás Maduro's capture.
Moshiri advised the Central Intelligence Agency on potential successors, naming then-Vice President Delcy Rodríguez over Maria Machado.
After Maduro's capture, Trump echoed the guidance, stating Machado lacked sufficient support.
The disclosures raise concerns about intertwining corporate interests with U.S. foreign policy.

1 of 1

Story summary

In March 2026, reports said U.S. President Donald Trump relied on Ali Moshiri to influence a Venezuela operation leading to Nicolás Maduro's capture.
Moshiri advised the Central Intelligence Agency on potential successors, naming then-Vice President Delcy Rodríguez over Maria Machado.
After Maduro's capture, Trump echoed the guidance, stating Machado lacked sufficient support.
The disclosures raise concerns about intertwining corporate interests with U.S. foreign policy.