How much power does the US hold in Venezuela?

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that the United States has gained major influence in Venezuela after the removal of former President Nicolas Maduro, but questions remain about how much real control Washington actually holds. The report frames the issue as a test of whether U.S. leverage can translate into lasting power on the ground, or whether the country’s political future will still depend on other forces.

The piece cites expert analysis from Henry Ziemer, who argues that even with expanded influence, the United States may still need to “own” Venezuela in a broader political sense. That assessment suggests Washington could face the challenge of moving from outside pressure to deeper responsibility for Venezuela’s stability, institutions and leadership.

The report, published by Al Jazeera on 14 August 2026, focuses on the aftermath of Maduro’s removal and the broader debate over U.S. strategy in Latin America. In general background terms, the United States has long played an outsized role in regional politics, and Venezuela has been a frequent point of tension because of its government, oil wealth and relations with Washington. Al Jazeera’s segment highlights that influence does not always equal full control, especially in a country with its own internal power centers and political uncertainties.