Venezuela faces political uncertainty and resource control following U.S. intervention

Seven months after a U.S. military incursion on January 3, 2026, and the capture of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela remains in a state of political uncertainty and institutional fragility. Rather than a clean democratic transition, the country is experiencing a period of international tutelage and power reconfiguration.

Currently, the Chavismo political leadership remains in executive functions under the presidency of Delcy Rodríguez. Opposition sectors report that electoral guarantees have not been restored, repression continues, and political prisoners remain detained.

The geopolitical focus has shifted toward the control of strategic resources. Under the supervision of Washington, Venezuelan crude oil shipments to the U.S. market have seen a massive reactivation. President Donald Trump has stated that Venezuelan oil belongs to the U.S. as war booty. Similar patterns of exploitation are reported in the Mining Arc, which is perceived as being under U.S. tutelage. Despite increased revenue from hydrocarbon sales, these funds have not translated into improved wages, pensions, or social welfare for the Venezuelan population.