Donald Trump has clearly expressed his interest in Venezuela’s oil reserves. “Venezuela is completely surrounded by the largest armada ever mobilized in the history of South America. It will only increase, and the shock for them will be something never seen before — until they return to the United States all the oil, land and other property previously stolen from us,” he said. This statement marks a turnaround. Until then, the fight against drug trafficking justified the military pressure exerted on the dictator Nicolas Maduro. Today, Trump mixes a false reading of the facts with a reckless threat.
- Editorial: Dialogue between Lula and Trump could help defuse the impasse in Venezuela
To our knowledge, the Venezuelans have never stolen oil or land from the Americans. In 1976, when the creation of PDVSA led to the nationalization of oil production, there was financial compensation. It is true that even today, American companies complain of not having received the amount due when contracts with PDVSA were terminated by the Chavista regime. But this is a legal discussion. Until now, the United States has never failed to recognize Venezuela’s sovereignty over its natural resources. From now on, all South American countries rich in oil or minerals will be on alert about American intentions.
- Editorial: US action in Venezuela stems from Maduro’s persistence in power
Since August, when the Americans sent troops near the Venezuelan coast, the military operation has taken an unusual turn. Venezuela is not one of the largest producers of cocaine (unlike the Andean countries). It is an organized crime route, but most of the goods are destined for Europe. Trump insisted his goal was to prevent drugs from entering the United States. Speedboats have been sunk on charges of transporting drugs. In November, the world’s largest aircraft carrier arrived in the Caribbean and Maduro was accused of running a cartel.
In secret negotiations between Americans and Venezuelans, Maduro’s representatives even offered a majority stake in oil and mining exploration in exchange for an end to pressure. To stay in power, the dictator promised to prioritize American companies, send oil exported to China to American refineries and cut contracts with Chinese, Russian and Iranian companies. Trump did not accept it. Last week, US troops seized an oil tanker carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Venezuelan oil bound for Cuba and then China.
Trump’s plans for Latin America were approved last week by the new national security strategy. The text promises to comply with the Monroe Doctrine, an American policy for the region created in the 19th century and justifying numerous political and military interventions. By reissuing it, Trump intends to deny his competitors outside the Americas “the ability to mobilize forces or other threatening capabilities, or to possess and control strategically vital assets.” In a White House dominated by such a doctrine, taking control of Venezuelan oil seems a natural step. The risk of conflict in Brazil’s neighborhood cannot therefore be ignored.
About The Author
