Context Note
Recently, the United States carried out a military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who then appeared in a U.S. court and pleaded not guilty to drug and weapons charges. The Trump administration said it aims to rebuild Venezuela’s oil industry and give U.S. companies access to the country’s large oil reserves, a move that has sparked global debate about foreign intervention, resources, and international law.
Speaking Practice
- What is the video about?
- Why do you think oil resources are important in global politics?
- How might a country’s foreign policy change when it wants access to another nation’s natural resources?
- If you were a Venezuelan citizen, how might you feel about foreign countries getting involved in your nation’s affairs?
- Do you think powerful countries should help weaker countries only when there is a mutual benefit? Why or why not?
Writing Practice
Write about the ethical challenges of powerful nations intervening in other countries’ politics for access to resources. Explain your opinion with examples of how this could affect local people and international relationships.