Trump and Oil Companies Prior to Venezuela Action

President Donald Trump had discussions with oil company leaders before a controversial operation in Venezuela, yet decided against notifying lawmakers beforehand. A government source confirmed to ABC News that an upcoming session at the White House with oil executives was meant to deliberate on investment opportunities in Venezuela.

Prior to the Venezuelan initiative, Trump admitted to conversing with American oil enterprises while avoiding disclosure to legislators, citing worries about possible leaks. This operation eventually led to the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power.

During a media interaction aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed talks with 'all' oil companies both before and after the raid took place.

On questioning whether the oil companies were forewarned, Trump negated such claims but admitted discussions on hypothetical actions. Although aware of potential plans, oil companies were not informed of any definitive steps.

Venezuela's Rich Oil Reserve and Potential U.S. Challenges

Post-operation, Trump declared interim U.S. oversight of Venezuela, emphasizing anticipated involvement in their lucrative oil sector. He highlighted opportunities for American firms due to Venezuela's significant oil reserves.

Despite Trump’s claims, Chevron stated to ABC News that they had no prior awareness of the planned raid. Chevron adheres to standard business practices, meeting regularly with various stakeholders while obeying pertinent laws.

Exxon Mobil and ConocoPhillips remained silent regarding any interactions with Trump. Notably, these companies severed ties with Venezuelan operations nearly two decades ago.

Trump’s administration framed the operation as primarily enforcing law rather than a military action, despite the geopolitical ramifications.

Maduro and affiliates face serious accusations tied to narcotics trafficking, charges which both he and his spouse deny robustly.

Congressional Notification Controversy

While Trump claimed discretion was essential to preserve mission integrity, avoiding prior congressional notification, some saw this as controversial.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio supported Trump's decision, emphasizing the risks of pre-alerts.

Following the operation, Congress was briefed urgently. Some members voiced discomfort with the delayed notification, urging compliance with the War Powers Resolution which mandates presidential consultation with Congress for military actions.

Notably, the War Powers Resolution specifies informing certain congressional leaders in advance of covert operations, a protocol which wasn’t borrowed here.

U.S. Oil Companies’ Potential Role in Venezuelan Oil

Trump indicated that leading American oil firms might pour immense resources into Venezuela to upgrade its decaying oil infrastructure, presenting potential economic opportunities.

However, no explicit public commitment has yet been announced by major oil corporations.

ConocoPhillips expressed an interest in monitoring Venezuelan developments without making definitive business announcements.

Chevron stressed dedication to current operations and safeguarding employee interests while abiding by legal standards.