https://finance.yahoo.com/news/oil-market-may-absorb-maduro-163303863.html
US airstrikes led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a major geopolitical event, but early indicators show limited impact on global oil markets. Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, including José port, Amuay refinery, and the Orinoco Belt remains operational and undamaged, according to confidential sources. Output has fallen sharply over 20 years and now accounts for <1% of global supply; recent US pressure forced some well shutdowns. Trump confirmed sanctions will continue and said US firms will help rebuild the sector, though recovery is likely distant and highly ambitious. Global oil supply is expected to exceed demand by 3.8M b/d in 2026, a record glut, while crude prices recently hovered near US$60/bbl. Analysts expect only a marginal Brent increase of US$1–2 at market open, citing strong oversupply, weak seasonal demand, and rising OPEC+ production. Chevron continues operating in Venezuela under a sanctions waiver, alongside partners including Repsol, Eni, and Maurel et Prom. Venezuela holds reserves larger than Saudi Arabia, but past nationalizations triggered compensation claims from Shell and Exxon Mobil. Trump did not clarify which US companies would rebuild output or when production might restart.