US Seizes Maduro, Aims to 'Run' Venezuela & Its Oil Riches Amidst Challenges

• US special forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores in Caracas, charging them with drug and weapons offenses.
• President Trump declared the US would 'run' Venezuela until a 'proper' transition, aiming to control its political direction and monetize vast oil reserves.
• Despite US ambitions, significant constraints exist, including degraded oil infrastructure, ongoing sanctions, and unresolved political legitimacy.
• Vice President Delcy Rodríguez is being considered a transitional figure, with her public stance softening towards cooperation with the US.
• US oil companies remain cautious about returning due to legal disputes, security risks, and the need for major legal and infrastructure reforms.

Why It Matters: The US seeks to control Venezuela's future and oil post-Maduro's capture, facing complex political and economic hurdles.