President Donald J. Trump today acknowledged that senior executives from major U.S. oil companies were notified about the United States’ military operation in Venezuela — including the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro — before key members of the U.S. Congress were informed.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, the President confirmed that U.S. oil firms were briefed “before and after” the operation, and described their involvement in plans to rebuild Venezuela’s dilapidated energy infrastructure once security conditions permit.

“They want to go in,” the President said. “They’re going to do a great job for the people of Venezuela, and they’re going to represent us well.”

President Trump framed the outreach as part of a broader strategic vision to tap into Venezuela’s vast crude reserves and revitalize oil production under American private-sector leadership. He asserted that U.S. companies would invest billions of dollars to repair and modernize oil infrastructure that has suffered from years of underinvestment and mismanagement.

Constitutional and political questions emerge

The revelation has prompted immediate scrutiny from lawmakers in both parties.

Critics argue that informing private industry about an impending military operation before notifying Congress raises serious constitutional and oversight concerns, particularly in light of the War Powers Resolution, which generally requires congressional notification within 48 hours of major hostilities.

“This administration failed to fulfill its obligation to consult with Congress before undertaking a major military action,” said one Democratic lawmaker. “Telling oil executives before telling the people’s representatives undermines democratic accountability.”

Industry responses and reality check

While the President claimed broad industry awareness and interest, multiple major U.S. oil companies — including ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron — have since publicly stated they were not consulted prior to the operation and have not engaged in formal discussions about post-conflict investment plans.

Energy analysts note that Venezuela’s oil infrastructure requires extensive upgrades, and companies will likely proceed cautiously given the political volatility and legal uncertainties surrounding new U.S. control over Venezuelan energy assets.

Next steps

President Trump indicated that future engagement with the oil sector will be a priority, including discussions at upcoming industry forums. Meanwhile, Congressional leaders have pledged hearings to examine both the legal basis and strategic rationale for the Venezuela operation and the administration’s outreach to private industry.