WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump outlined his approach to Venezuela’s oil sector as lawmakers prepared to vote on a measure that would limit future U.S. military action in the country following the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
Trump discussed Venezuela’s oil resources during remarks at the White House and in comments to reporters. He said U.S. policy would focus on securing access to Venezuela’s energy supplies, stabilizing oil production and restructuring trade arrangements with Caracas. He linked the approach to broader U.S. energy and security interests in the Western Hemisphere.
The administration has not released full details about the overnight operation that led to Maduro’s capture. Senior U.S. officials acknowledged American involvement, describing it as a coordinated action that included intelligence, logistical and surveillance support.
Officials did not confirm whether U.S. forces conducted direct combat operations on the ground. They said Maduro was taken into custody without major damage to oil facilities or urban areas.
In Congress, lawmakers from both parties moved to advance resolutions under the War Powers Act that would restrict the president’s authority to carry out additional military strikes in Venezuela without explicit congressional approval. Democratic lawmakers said Congress must reassert its constitutional role in authorizing the use of force. They cited past conflicts in which administrations relied on broad or outdated authorizations.
At least one Republican lawmaker joined the effort, saying any expanded or prolonged military action in Venezuela should require clear approval from Congress. Other Republicans defended the administration’s position and said the president needs flexibility to respond to threats and protect U.S. interests, including access to energy resources.
Administration officials defended the legality of the initial operation, saying it complied with existing authorizations and fell within the president’s powers as commander in chief. Some lawmakers disputed that interpretation, arguing that current authorizations do not cover military actions aimed at regime targets in Venezuela.
The House vote is expected to signal the level of bipartisan support for limiting executive authority over military operations in Venezuela and may shape future debate over U.S. policy toward the country’s energy sector and regional strategy.
