The United States has asserted its "maximum leverage" over Venezuela's interim authorities following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro. In a press briefing on Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared that the decisions made by the interim government will be dictated by the United States. "We're continuing to be in close coordination with the interim authorities, and their decisions are going to continue to be dictated by the United States of America," Leavitt stated.

President Trump, who has publicly emphasized U.S. intentions to "run" Venezuela despite the absence of troops on the ground, will meet with U.S. oil executives on Friday. This meeting aims to discuss future plans for Venezuela's struggling oil sector, as the administration focuses on seizing opportunities in the country's volatile market. The plan reportedly includes negotiations for Venezuela to deliver between 30 and 50 million barrels of oil to the U.S., although such arrangements have yet to be verified by Caracas.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration's approach after facing criticism from lawmakers. He stated that the U.S. had a detailed plan following Maduro's overthrow and was not acting without foresight. While Trump has suggested that U.S. oil companies will invest in Venezuela's deteriorating oil facilities, no formal commitments have been made as of yet. Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated that the U.S. would have indefinite control over Venezuelan oil sales.

Moreover, the U.S. has enforced what it describes as a blockade against Venezuela to thwart unauthorized oil exports. In a related event, an oil tanker, which was reportedly attempting to disguise its registration, was seized in the North Atlantic after being tracked from the Venezuelan coast. Leavitt noted that the vessel had been labeled "stateless" and would face legal repercussions for transporting sanctioned oil. This assertive stance underscores the U.S. commitment to manipulating Venezuela’s oil production and distribution amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.