The Trump administration is broadening its resource strategy in Venezuela beyond petroleum, now seeking new avenues to access gold and other critical minerals in a bid to further cement U.S. control over the South American nation's natural wealth.

According to a Reuters report citing three sources familiar with the discussions, the Trump administration is weighing a series of measures—including the possibility of signing an executive order on critical minerals—designed to boost U.S. involvement in Venezuela's mining sector. The sources indicated that American officials have already held talks with multiple companies to gauge their interest in investing in or participating in Venezuelan mining operations.

White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers stated that the United States and Venezuela are "benefiting from renewed cooperation between the two governments, as well as investment by Western companies in Venezuela's key industries."

However, the actual value of Venezuela's mineral resources remains highly uncertain. Outdated geological data, weak infrastructure, and the control of gold deposits in the Orinoco Mining Arc by illegal armed groups are all factors that compel mining companies and investors to carefully assess their options before making any major investment decisions.

Strategic Shift Beyond Oil

Since the U.S. military ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro in January, Trump has been working to more tightly align Venezuela's resources with Washington's strategic and economic interests. Extending this focus to the mining sector represents a natural progression of that strategy.

According to Reuters sources, this move could open the door for U.S. capital to enter Venezuela's mining industry, allowing American companies not only to access oil but also to secure supplies of minerals that are vital to national security. Venezuela produces gold, iron ore, bauxite, and nickel, offering the Trump administration an opportunity to merge resource acquisition with national security and economic agendas.

One critical minerals executive, who has met with the government regarding Venezuela, commented: "We are all closely watching developments in the oil sector and recognize that a parallel path could also emerge in the critical minerals space."

Executive Order Still Pending, Policy Direction Uncertain

The sources revealed that the Trump administration is considering an executive order related to critical minerals, but the order is still being drafted and the overall strategic direction remains subject to change.

There is not full consensus inside the White House. One administration official told Reuters that there is currently no pressing need for such an executive order, arguing that existing laws already provide a solid framework for investment. This statement differs somewhat from the direction described by the sources, indicating that internal policy coordination is still underway.

Resource Potential in Question, Investors Face Multiple Hurdles

Although Venezuela's mineral prospects are seen as a potential opportunity, the hurdles facing actual investment cannot be overlooked. According to Reuters, a large portion of the geological data is outdated, making it difficult to accurately assess Venezuela's mineral resource potential at this time.

In addition, illegal armed groups control the gold deposits in the Orinoco Mining Arc, and infrastructure development remains severely lagging. Analysts point out that given these uncertainties, mining companies and investors are likely to demand the latest geological survey data before committing to any major new investment decisions.