The United States' recent military action in Venezuela has ignited concerns over the future control and utilization of South America's extensive mineral resources, potentially impacting the global energy transition and geopolitical power dynamics. The military operation, presented as targeting a corrupt regime, is viewed by some analysts as a strategic move in the ongoing competition between the U.S. and China for access to vital resources.

Venezuela's oil reserves are a primary, though not exclusive, target. The nation's vast mineral wealth, including rare earth elements crucial for renewable energy technologies, is at stake. The outcome of this intervention could determine whether these resources are channeled towards facilitating a global shift to clean energy or used to bolster U.S. military strength and protect its interests in fossil fuels.

The situation is unfolding against a backdrop of increasing global demand for resources needed for electric vehicles, solar panels, and other green technologies. South America holds significant reserves of lithium, copper, and other minerals essential for this transition. Control over these resources could provide a significant economic and strategic advantage.

Fixing Venezuela's oil industry infrastructure would take many years and cost tens of billions of dollars.