Geopolitical Economy Report Trump admits he wants to take Venezuela's oil — and give it to US corporations
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Dec 18, 2025 The conversation dives into Donald Trump's bold claim about seizing Venezuela's oil for U.S. corporations, revealing underlying colonial motives. Discussions cover the historical context of Venezuela's oil nationalization and the impact of U.S. sanctions, portrayed as illegal by UN experts. Insights into Trump's coup attempts and the naval blockade highlight the aggressive tactics employed. The episode critiques media narratives and questions the legitimacy of U.S. interests while framing it as a modern imperialist strategy.
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Trump's Admission Reveals Colonial Aim
- Ben Norton argues Trump's statement reveals explicit colonial aims to seize Venezuelan oil for U.S. corporations.
- He frames U.S. policy as treating Venezuela's resources as U.S. property rather than Venezuelan sovereignty.
Trump's 'We Would Have Taken It Over' Moment
- Norton recounts Trump's 2020 claim that "we would have taken it over" when Venezuela was close to collapse.
- He uses this as a direct example of intent to seize Venezuelan assets and control the country.
Corporate Links Shape Foreign Policy
- Norton links Rex Tillerson's ExxonMobil background to U.S. policy goals in Venezuela.
- He suggests corporate interests shaped Trump administration foreign policy toward Venezuelan oil.