The United States has started a new plan for Venezuela. This plan includes arresting President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. It also involves freeing American citizens. A big idea is to help Venezuela's oil industry. These events are changing politics in the region. They are also starting important talks about climate change.
US special forces arrested President Maduro and his wife on January 3rd. They were taken to New York. They will face drug charges in court. This is a strong move by the US. It shows more pressure on Venezuela's leaders. In return, Venezuela said it would free some Americans. President Trump said this happened. He thought Venezuela did this to help with Maduro's arrest.
A separate issue is between the US and Colombia. President Trump accused Colombia's president of drug links. He even spoke about possible military action. This caused worry. The two presidents talked for a long time. This helped calm the situation. However, this shows that US foreign policy can be surprising.
A more important long-term effect is about energy. President Trump met with oil leaders. He wants them to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's oil. Trump is hopeful about how much oil they can get. However, Venezuela's oil system is very old. It has had problems for years. Also, its oil is hard to extract.
Using Venezuela's oil could affect the world. It could be bad for climate goals. One study says it might use 13% of the world's carbon budget. This is for keeping global warming below 1.5 degrees. Venezuela might produce more oil from 2028. This raises questions about climate promises.
The US plan depends on Venezuela cooperating. There is a big risk. The Venezuelan government might not want to help. It might also not be able to do what the US wants. Venezuela has many problems. The situation with justice, oil, and climate in Venezuela will be watched closely.