On Monday, January 20, US President Donald Trump stated that he is closely watching Venezuela “with great interest” and emphasized that the United States does not need Venezuelan oil. His remarks came as part of ongoing efforts to pressure Nicolás Maduro, who began his third presidential term on January 10 after a controversial re-election.
A Clear Message Early in His Term
During one of his first interviews as president, Trump was asked how he would ensure Maduro complies with the return of deportees, following his executive order suspending the refugee admission program. Trump responded plainly: “We’ll see. We’re watching Venezuela with great interest.”
He added: “It’s a country I know very well for several reasons. Twenty years ago, it was a great nation. Now it’s a disaster.”
Could US Oil Imports From Venezuela End?
JUST NOW: Trump says US should “probably stop buying oil from Venezuela.”
Very good news if true — would cripple the Maduro regime if Chevron’s license to deal in Venezuela was revoked. pic.twitter.com/CbeQKt22mc
— Kareem Rifai 🌐 (@KareemRifai) January 21, 2025
When pressed on whether he was still committed to pushing Maduro out of power, Trump hinted at bold actions. “We’ll see about that too, because we might stop buying oil from Venezuela. We don’t need it,” he said.
Trump suggested the possibility of another embargo, similar to the ones implemented during his first term. “The US has more than enough oil. That would change Venezuela significantly,” he concluded.
Chevron Under Scrutiny
Newly confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Trump’s concerns during his confirmation hearing. Rubio argued that the US should revisit the licenses allowing Chevron to operate in Venezuela, pointing out that these operations contribute billions to Maduro’s ‘regime.’
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