A US Congressional report states that there are disagreements among lawmakers over the seizures of ships carrying Venezuelan oil.
Congress states that it has supported US efforts in the past to force Nicolás Maduro to relinquish power in order to accelerate the return to democracy in Venezuela.
Seizures of ships
“However, members have disagreed on the policy objectives of President Donald Trump’s second administration and the legality of US military attacks on drug-trafficking ships at sea, seizures of ships carrying Venezuelan oil, and the military overthrow of Maduro,” the report says.
Members can continue to request information from the Trump administration. They can also try to obtain key answers. In addition, they participate in consultations on their political approach.
For its part, Congress can evaluate new legislation. In particular, it could authorize or prohibit future military actions. It can also define the use of funds linked to operations in Venezuela.
Similarly, Congress could analyze laws to support US policy. It could even consider frameworks for a democratic transition, similar to the VERDAD Act.
Finally, Congress could allocate resources to support democracy or economic recovery. However, these funds could be subject to specific conditions. At the same time, it can hold hearings, request reports from inspectors general, and maintain communication with opposition leaders in exile.
Venezuelan oil
Venezuela has the largest proven oil reserves in the world. However, production has plummeted. The cause, according to the report: corruption, US sanctions, and mismanagement.
In this context, President Trump has reiterated a central accusation. He claimed that Venezuela stole oil and other resources from the United States. At the same time, Secretary Marco Rubio maintained that the “oil quarantine” on sanctioned shipments will remain in effect. All this while Washington leads the reconstruction of the sector.
However, some experts have questioned these claims. In particular, they question the existence of a non-international armed conflict. They also question Maduro’s alleged leadership of the Aragua Train. And, in addition, the alleged theft of oil.
January 3, 2026 marked a turning point. On that day, Trump announced attacks by the US military throughout Venezuelan territory. The operation concluded with the capture of President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Both were transferred to New York to face charges of drug trafficking, drug smuggling, and weapons possession.
Maduro’s removal from office came after months of military pressure. Before that, there were deadly attacks on ships suspected of transporting drugs. There were also seizures of vessels carrying sanctioned Venezuelan oil. And finally, a drone attack destroyed a port facility.
After these events, Trump took a clear stance. He stated that the United States would “govern” Venezuela until a transition took place. He also assured that US companies would finance the reconstruction of the oil infrastructure.