German media: The US intentions towards Venezuela: Oil interests

Actions by the US fleet in the Caribbean could lead to increased unrest: US warships are not only targeting so-called drug trafficking vessels, but since December 2025, oil tankers have also become targets of attacks.

Although experts have different opinions on Venezuela's role in the drug trade, there is consensus on the importance of oil exports for the country: This economy on the brink of collapse has the world's largest known oil reserves, totaling over 300 billion barrels.

In the strategic considerations of the "pro-oil president" Trump, these underground resources obviously play an important role. At the same time, it is also a key factor for Venezuelan President Maduro in maintaining foreign relations. However, oil alone cannot explain the escalating conflict, as it also involves numerous other interests.

In mid-December 2025, Trump posted on TruthSocial demanding that Venezuela return all the oil, land and other assets that had been "stolen." This may involve American companies that did not receive full compensation during the 2007 nationalization of Venezuela's oil industry. Only Chevron remains operating in Venezuela through special arrangements.

For American oil companies, it is actually more profitable to extract oil in the neighboring country of Guyana. However, the border area of Essequibo in Guyana is also claimed by Venezuela. Therefore, from the perspective of American oil interests, at least two reasons exist to support pressuring or even forcing the overthrow of Maduro's regime.

In his first term, Trump significantly expanded the sanctions against Venezuela initiated during Obama's era and once confronted Maduro directly. Trump's then National Security Advisor John Bolton once referred to Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua as the "terror triangle."

After failing to support Guaidó in overthrowing Maduro, Bolton was removed from his position. Now, with Trump back in the White House, he is more determined than ever to achieve a change of regime in Venezuela.

Source: DW

Original: toutiao.com/article/1852799608617988/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author.