Delcy Rodríguez, the interim leader of Venezuela, has requested military assistance from the United States to facilitate the return of an oil tanker that departed from Venezuela without authorization. This marks a notable instance of military collaboration between the U.S. and Venezuela amid ongoing political instability following the ousting of President Nicolás Maduro. The tanker, known as either Olina or Minerva M, reportedly left with crude oil without proper payment, prompting the Venezuelan state oil company, Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), to assert that it had not authorized the vessel's departure.

Former President Donald Trump has indicated that the U.S. government is involved in the tanker’s return, claiming coordination with Rodríguez. He also mentioned that she maintains regular communication with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a statement supported by various sources.

In a related context, California Representative Ted Lieu has criticized Trump's calls for U.S. oil companies to invest in Venezuela, highlighting the ethical implications of engaging with an authoritarian regime. Lieu's remarks underscore concerns about the impact of U.S. energy policy on domestic fuel prices and international relations, particularly regarding humanitarian considerations in countries like Venezuela.

On January 11, 2026, the U.S. Senate advanced a war powers resolution aimed at limiting military actions in Venezuela without congressional approval. This resolution received bipartisan support, including from five Republican senators, reflecting a growing concern about unilateral military interventions. Following the vote, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the dissenting senators, emphasizing his belief that the resolution undermines national security.

Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky has emerged as a prominent Republican voice against U.S. intervention in Venezuela, criticizing the administration's approach towards Maduro and advocating for congressional oversight of military actions. His stance highlights the internal divisions within the Republican Party regarding foreign intervention and the balance of power in military engagements.

Additionally, Trump announced that no further Venezuelan oil or financial resources would be sent to Cuba, urging the nation to negotiate with the U.S. This decision follows a significant reduction in oil supplies to Cuba, which has historically relied on Venezuela for its energy needs. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel responded by asserting Cuba's sovereignty and condemning U.S. actions as coercive.

The U.S. government's stance towards Cuba is part of a long history of sanctions and embargoes, which have contributed to the island's economic challenges. As Cuba faces increased hardships, including power outages and economic instability, the implications of U.S. policies raise questions about the humanitarian impact on the Cuban population and the broader region.