Venezuela Crisis 2026: Maduro Gone, Trump Takes Control of Oil Money – What Just Happened?
Date: January 11, 2026
Topic: International News / Geopolitics
The world woke up to shocking news this January. The situation in Venezuela has changed completely overnight. If you are hearing rumors about Nicolas Maduro being removed and US President Donald Trump signing new orders, it is all true. Tensions have spiked to the highest level, and everyone is asking: what is happening in Venezuela, and how will it affect us?
This is not just a small political fight; it is a historic event that changes global politics and the oil market. Let’s break down the full story simply so you can understand the what, why, and how.
The Big News: Operation "Absolute Resolve"
On January 3, 2026, the United States launched a massive military operation called "Operation Absolute Resolve." In a surprise move, US forces struck targets in Venezuela and captured President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife, Cilia Flores.
For years, there was tension between the US and Maduro. But this time, President Trump took direct action. Maduro was flown straight to New York, where he is now facing serious charges related to drug trafficking and "narco-terrorism."
This left a huge power vacuum in Venezuela. While Maduro is in a US jail, his Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, has stepped in as the "Acting President." However, the real control seems to be shifting. President Trump has openly stated that the US will "run" Venezuela until a safe transition happens.
Trump's New Move: Protecting the Oil Money
Just a few days after capturing Maduro, on January 9, 2026, President Trump signed a very important Executive Order.
What does this order do?
The order declares a "national emergency" regarding Venezuelan assets.6 Specifically, it is designed to "protect" Venezuelan oil revenue that is kept in US bank accounts.
Why did he do this?
There are two main reasons:
To stop creditors: Venezuela owes a lot of money to many people and countries. Without this order, those creditors could try to seize this oil money through lawsuits. Trump wants to block that.
To control the future: By locking this money, the US ensures that the funds are used only for what America sees as "good" for Venezuela's future (and US interests), rather than being stolen by corrupt officials or taken by foreign enemies.
The White House says this money will be used for the "benefit of the Venezuelan people" and to help rebuild the country, but strictly under US supervision.
Why Did This Happen Now?
You might be wondering, why 2026? Why not before?
The situation had become unbearable. Reports say that drug trafficking from Venezuela was hurting the US badly. The US administration decided that sanctions (restrictions) were not working fast enough. They wanted a direct solution.
Also, global oil demand is tricky. By taking control of Venezuela—which has the largest oil reserves in the world—the US can ensure that this oil flows freely again in the future, potentially lowering gas prices for everyone, including us in India.
What is Happening on the Ground? (The Human Cost)
While the politicians fight, the common people in Venezuela are scared. The situation is very tense.
Militias on the Streets: There are reports of armed groups called "colectivos" (who supported Maduro) setting up roadblocks.
14 They are angry and searching for US citizens or supporters of the opposition.Fear and Confusion: Regular people don't know who is really in charge. Is it Delcy Rodriguez? Is it the US military?
Humanitarian Crisis: Already, people were suffering from a lack of food and medicine. The UN is trying to help, but this sudden chaos makes aid delivery very hard.
Impact on the Global Market and
This event is huge for the economy. Here is how it impacts the world and you:
1. Oil Prices:
Immediately after the news, oil prices jumped a little because of fear. However, experts say the price might not go too high because there is already a lot of oil in the market (a "glut"). If the US successfully fixes Venezuela's oil companies, oil prices could actually go down later in 2026.18 This would be good news for India, as we import a lot of oil.19
2. Geopolitics:
Countries like Russia and China are very unhappy. They had loaned billions to Maduro. Now that the US is effectively "running" the show, Russia and China might lose their money and influence in South America. This creates more tension between these superpowers.
What is the Next Step?
The future is very uncertain. Here is what we can expect in the coming months of 2026:
The Trial: The world will watch the trial of Nicolas Maduro in New York. It will be a media sensation.
The "Transition": The US has promised to rebuild Venezuela's oil industry. US companies like Chevron might go back in big numbers to fix the broken oil wells.
Elections: The US will push for new, free elections to replace the current interim government.
Conclusion
The removal of Maduro and Trump's executive order is a turning point. It ends the long rule of the "Chavista" government in Venezuela but starts a new chapter of US involvement. For the people of Venezuela, we hope it brings peace and food, not more fighting. For the rest of us, we must watch the oil prices and see if this bold move by the US leads to stability or more conflict.
Quick Highlights:-
US Military Operation "Absolute Resolve" has removed Nicolas Maduro.
Global Impact: Oil prices may drop later in 2026; major US oil companies (Chevron, Exxon) are meeting to rebuild infrastructure.
India Angle: Good news for Indian refineries like Reliance that can process heavy crude oil.