Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured following US airstrikes, but the global oil market remains largely unaffected. Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, including key facilities and refineries, is still operational. Despite recent US pressure forcing the country to shut some oil wells, worldwide oil supplies are expected to exceed demand by 3.8 million barrels a day in 2026.

US crude prices rose by close to $2 following the capture of Maduro, but experts predict only a marginal increase in Brent crude prices. OPEC and allies, including Russia, are expected to maintain a planned pause to production hikes at their upcoming meeting. Seizures of tankers in the Caribbean have caused operators of sanctioned vessels to reverse course.

Chevron Corp. has continued to operate in Venezuela under a sanctions waiver, focusing on employee safety and asset integrity. The capture of Maduro raises speculation about the future of the Venezuelan oil industry, which holds significant reserves. Major international operators like Shell PLC and Exxon Mobil Corp have faced challenges due to past nationalizations.

President Trump hinted at a greater US presence in the Venezuelan oil sector following Maduro’s capture. Companies like Chevron, Repsol, Eni SpA, and Maurel et Prom SA are still present in Venezuela, partnering in oil and gas ventures. Despite the uncertainty, the global oil market is expected to manage any disruptions caused by the geopolitical developments.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Oil Market May Absorb Maduro Shock Amid Abundant Global Supplies