Annual Global Report 

“The Power Map” 

Why World Politics Follows Oil, Minerals, and Military Bases
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How BRICS Challenges the Dollar and Why U.S. Influence in Energy Still Matters

Follow the map: energy, minerals, and military

Geopolitics feels less confusing when you track three things: who has energy, who has important minerals, and where strong militaries can act quickly. The image points to Venezuela because it has the world’s largest proven oil reserves, to Nigeria because oil production there is important but can be disrupted, and to Greenland because it has strong rare earth potential and sits in a strategic Arctic location. When you follow these basics, big events start to look less like accidents and more like predictable moves to protect supply, trade routes, and power. (U.S. Energy Information Administration)

BRICS and the push to rely less on the dollar

Many BRICS leaders have talked about using the U.S. dollar less in trade, because relying on one country’s currency can feel risky if politics change or sanctions hit. Reuters reported that Brazil’s BRICS presidency was not planning to create a single BRICS currency, but it still aimed to encourage less reliance on the dollar through other steps like connecting payment systems and using national currencies more. Reuters also reported comments from a Brazil central bank director saying there is not a big enough pool of BRICS-denominated assets to truly rival the dollar soon, which shows this is more of a long project than a quick switch. So when people say BRICS wants to “devalue the dollar,” it usually means they want to weaken the dollar’s special role by lowering how often it is needed, not that they can simply press a button and drop its value. (Reuters)

Why oil makes “de-dollarization” harder

Oil is one of the biggest reasons the dollar stays powerful, because major oil markets still run on dollar pricing and dollar-based trading. For example, the CME contract specs for NYMEX WTI crude oil futures list the price quotation as “U.S. dollars and cents per barrel,” which matters because companies and governments use these markets to plan and protect themselves from price changes. At the same time, the Federal Reserve reports the dollar is still used heavily in global transactions, including a very large share of international payments, and it made up about 58% of disclosed global foreign exchange reserves in 2024. That means even if some BRICS trade happens in other currencies, the world’s biggest energy pricing and payment habits keep pulling people back toward dollars. (CME Group)

How U.S. oil strength can slow a weaker-dollar plan

The United States has more influence in oil than many people realize because it produces so much. The U.S. Energy Information Administration says U.S. crude oil production hit a record 13.2 million barrels per day in 2024 and that the United States continues to be the world’s top crude oil-producing country. When a country is that large in supply, it has more ability to steady markets, make deals, and shape global expectations about future oil availability. And because so much oil trading and financing is tied to dollar systems, strong U.S. influence in oil can make it harder for big groups to move away from the dollar quickly, even if they really want to. (U.S. Energy Information Administration)

Venezuela shows how control of oil flows can support dollar power

Venezuela is a huge clue in the image because it has about 303 billion barrels of proven crude oil reserves, around 17% of global reserves, but its ability to use that oil depends on investment, technology, and access to markets. The EIA explains that Venezuela’s energy sector has been harmed by mismanagement and international sanctions, and it also notes the U.S. began granting exemptions starting in 2022 that allowed more Venezuelan crude to enter the global market. The same EIA report describes how the U.S. issued waivers for Chevron to export crude from joint ventures to U.S. refineries again, and how easing or tightening restrictions can change whether money can flow to Venezuela’s oil sector. This is one way oil “dominance” can protect the dollar’s role: if access to major oil supplies is shaped through rules and systems that run in dollars, then large buyers still end up needing dollars to operate at scale. (U.S. Energy Information Administration)

Nigeria shows how oil and military partnerships link together

Nigeria matters because it is a major oil country, but production can drop fast when pipelines and export terminals are damaged or shut down. The EIA describes disruptions from militant attacks, repair shutdowns on major facilities, and continued problems like oil theft and sabotage that force companies to shut production and limit exports. The image also mentions U.S. airstrikes, and Reuters reported that the U.S. carried out strikes in Sokoto state in coordination with Nigerian authorities against Islamic State-linked militants. When security problems threaten an energy producer, outside military help and security cooperation become more likely, because keeping energy flowing is not just about money—it is also about stability and access. (U.S. Energy Information Administration)

Greenland shows minerals plus Arctic positioning

Greenland is important because rare earth minerals are used in many high-tech tools, and supply chains can be fragile if too much comes from one place. A GEUS report notes that multiple rare earth deposits have been found in Greenland and suggests that some could be among the world’s largest. The International Energy Agency has warned that refining is highly concentrated, saying China is the leading refiner for 19 out of 20 strategic minerals with an average market share around 70%, which is why other countries look for new sources. On top of minerals, Greenland’s location matters for defense: the U.S. Space Force describes Pituffik Space Base missions that include missile warning, missile defense, and space surveillance, and U.S. Space Command has highlighted Pituffik’s importance for homeland defense. That’s the “military positioning” part of the pattern showing up right next to the “minerals” part. (GEUS)

Why this stays predictable, even when leaders change

When you put it all together, you can often predict the direction of world politics by watching where energy, minerals, and military access overlap with money. BRICS countries can try to reduce the dollar’s role by building new payment paths, but oil is still priced in dollars in major markets, and the dollar is still deeply used for reserves and international payments, which gives it strong “stickiness.” The United States cannot control everything, but its size in oil supply and its influence over which oil flows are easy or hard can slow down efforts to make the dollar less central. That is why the same places keep returning to the news: they sit at the crossroads of fuel, resources, and security. (Federal Reserve)

Impacts to Colombia

Colombia and Venezuela share a very long and complicated history because they are neighboring countries. Many families have relatives living on both sides of the border, creating a deep and lasting cultural connection. However, the sudden and dramatic events in Caracas have put an enormous amount of pressure on this relationship. Government officials in Bogota are now trying to figure out how to respond to the rapid changes across the border. This situation is expected to affect almost every part of Colombian life for a long time.

On January 3, 2026, the United States launched a military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro. This shocking event happened very quickly and caught many world leaders by surprise during the first week of the year. In Colombia, President Gustavo Petro immediately expressed his serious concerns about the use of military force in a neighboring nation. He believes that this action might lead to more violence and long-term instability throughout the entire South American region. Now, the Colombian government must prepare for the many unexpected consequences of this sudden regime change.

One of the most immediate impacts on Colombia will be a new wave of people moving across the border. Colombia already hosts around three million Venezuelans who have fled economic and political problems over the last decade. Experts believe that the recent military action could cause another 120,000 people to arrive in search of safety very soon. These families are looking for stability, food, and shelter while their own country remains in a state of chaos. Providing for so many people in such a short time is a massive task for the Colombian authorities.

Cities like Cúcuta and Riohacha are on the front lines of this developing humanitarian situation. Local leaders are already setting up emergency shelters and food stations to help those who are arriving daily. The Colombian Red Cross has sent specialized teams to the border to provide medical care and support to exhausted travelers. Many local residents are worried that their own community resources might not be enough to handle the large crowd. Despite the stress, there is a strong sense of community and a desire to help those in need.

The Colombian military has been put on high alert to ensure that the international border stays secure and orderly. About 30,000 soldiers have been sent to critical areas to prevent illegal groups from taking advantage of the current confusion. This massive deployment is meant to protect both Colombian citizens and the vulnerable migrants who are crossing. There is a real fear that armed groups might try to move their illegal operations into Colombian territory. Maintaining peace along such a long and remote border is a very difficult and expensive mission for the army.

President Petro is currently considering declaring an Economic Emergency to help pay for these new and difficult challenges. This declaration would allow the government to move money quickly to the departments where it is needed most. The national budget is already stretched thin, and this crisis adds a lot of unexpected costs for the taxpayers. Building more hospitals and temporary schools for the new arrivals will require billions of pesos from the national treasury. Without significant international help, Colombia might struggle to keep its own economy stable during this transition period.

Politics within Colombia are also changing rapidly because of the recent military intervention in Venezuela. The country is already preparing for its own national elections later in 2026, and this event is now a main topic of debate. Some politicians believe the removal of the previous regime is a positive step for democracy in the region. Others agree with President Petro that foreign military intervention is a dangerous mistake that violates national sovereignty. These differing opinions are creating a lot of intense discussion among voters across the entire country.

Public services like healthcare and education are likely to face even more pressure than they did in previous years. Many Venezuelan children will need to go to school in Colombia, which means more teachers and classrooms are required. Hospitals near the border are already very busy and might run out of basic medical supplies very quickly. The government needs to find a way to support these vital services without lowering the quality of care for local citizens. Finding this balance is one of the hardest things for the national and local leaders to manage.

Trade between the two countries has also been significantly interrupted by the recent military strikes and political unrest. For a while, businesses were starting to sell more products across the border as relations had begun to improve. Now, many of those important trade routes are closed or are considered too dangerous for truck drivers to use. If a stable new government is eventually formed in Venezuela, there might be a chance for a better economic future. However, in the short term, many Colombian businesses are losing money because of the ongoing uncertainty.

The power vacuum in Venezuela could also lead to an increase in activity from dangerous criminal organizations. Groups like the Tren de Aragua and various guerrilla forces often operate in the hidden parts of the border regions. Without a strong and functioning government in Caracas, these groups might try to expand their control over illegal trades. Colombia must work extra hard to stop these criminals from bringing more violence into its growing cities. Security forces are focusing on these specific threats to keep the civilian population as safe as possible.

The social impact on Colombian communities is another very important thing to consider during this period of change. While many people are welcoming to their neighbors, others are worried about how more migration will affect their own jobs. It is important for the government to promote messages of peace and integration to avoid social conflict between groups. Many Venezuelans have already become an important part of the Colombian workforce and contribute to the local economy. Building a shared and peaceful future will require a lot of patience and understanding from everyone involved.

International organizations like the United Nations are watching the situation in Colombia and Venezuela very closely right now. They are providing some initial aid, but much more will be needed as the crisis continues to unfold this month. Colombia is asking for global support to handle the humanitarian needs of the people fleeing the recent conflict. Other countries in South America are also worried about how this major event will affect the entire continent's stability. Working together with other nations is the only way to ensure that the region stays peaceful.

The environmental health of the border region is also at risk during this period of social unrest. Many people living in temporary camps may not have access to proper clean water or waste disposal systems. This can lead to serious health problems for both the migrants and the local Colombian residents living nearby. The government is trying to provide mobile water stations and better sanitation to prevent the spread of harmful diseases. Taking care of the environment is an essential part of the overall humanitarian response to this crisis.

Looking forward, the long-term impact on Colombia's demographics will be quite significant and will last for many generations. A large part of the Venezuelan population might decide to stay in Colombia permanently instead of returning home. This will change the culture of many Colombian cities and create a more diverse and vibrant society over time. While this change brings many challenges, it also brings new skills, talents, and energy to the Colombian economy. The youth of both nations will grow up side by side, eventually shaping a new future together.

In conclusion, the events of January 2026 have started a new and very uncertain chapter for the nation of Colombia. The country faces many immediate difficulties, ranging from security risks to economic strain and major social changes. However, Colombia has shown great resilience and kindness in the face of many previous regional crises. By working with international partners and focusing on humanitarian needs, the country can navigate these tough times successfully. The ultimate hope is that this difficult transition will eventually lead to a more peaceful and stable South America.

South American Impact

The world was shocked on January 3, 2026, when news broke that Nicolás Maduro had been captured. United States special forces carried out a surprise mission called Operation Absolute Resolve to take him into custody from his compound. This major event has changed the political map of South America almost overnight and created a lot of uncertainty. Many people in the region are now wondering what this means for their own governments and safety. It is a moment in history that will be studied by students and leaders for many years to come.

Immediately after the capture, Maduro and his wife were flown to New York City to face serious legal charges. He is currently being held in a federal detention center while he waits for his trial to begin in a Manhattan court. The United States government has accused him of several crimes, including narco-terrorism and the illegal trafficking of drugs. These charges are based on investigations that have been going on for several years. For the first time in decades, a sitting president from the region is facing justice in a foreign country.

In Venezuela, the political situation remains very tense as the government tries to figure out who is in charge. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was quickly sworn in as the acting president to fill the empty seat left by Maduro. While she has called for calm, she also described the capture as a kidnapping and a violation of her country's rules. Many government officials are still loyal to the old system and are not sure if they should cooperate with other countries. The streets of Caracas are quiet but filled with soldiers who are watching for any signs of trouble.

United States President Donald Trump has stated that his country will help run Venezuela until a proper transition can happen. He mentioned that he wants to send experts and perhaps even more security to ensure the country remains stable. This plan includes working with American oil companies to fix the broken buildings and pipes that produce energy. The goal is to restart the economy so that the Venezuelan people can finally have enough food and money again. However, some people are worried that this much outside control might cause more problems than it solves.

Neighboring countries like Brazil and Colombia are watching these developments with a mix of hope and deep concern. While they are glad to see a difficult leader removed, they are worried about the idea of the United States using military force in their region. Leaders in South America recently met to discuss how they can protect their own borders and independence. They want to make sure that no other country can simply come in and change their governments by force. This event has made every president in the area think carefully about their relationship with Washington.

The United Nations has also become very involved by holding emergency meetings in New York to discuss the crisis. Secretary-General António Guterres expressed alarm that international laws might have been broken during the military operation. He warned that this could set a dangerous example for other powerful nations to follow in the future. Many members of the UN want to see a peaceful solution where the Venezuelan people get to vote for their own leaders. They believe that true stability only comes when a government is chosen by the citizens, not by outside forces.

One of the biggest changes for South America will be the shift in power between global giants like China and Russia. For a long time, these two countries were the main supporters of Maduro and gave him billions of dollars in loans. Now that he is gone, they are losing their strongest ally in the Western Hemisphere and their investments are at risk. China has already asked for its citizens in Venezuela to stay safe and has criticized the U.S. intervention. This could lead to a new "Cold War" feeling as different powerful nations compete for influence in South America.

The future of the oil industry is another major topic that everyone is talking about right now. Venezuela has the largest oil reserves in the whole world, but the industry has been falling apart for many years. If American companies go in and fix the infrastructure, the amount of oil on the market could eventually double. This would bring a lot of wealth back to the country and could help lower gas prices for people everywhere. However, it will take a lot of time and money to repair the damage caused by years of neglect.

For the millions of people who fled Venezuela as refugees, there is finally a glimmer of hope that they can go home. Over seven million people moved to places like Peru, Chile, and Ecuador to escape poverty and hunger. Now that the leadership has changed, many families are waiting to see if it is safe enough to return to their houses. If these people go back, it will take a lot of pressure off the social systems of the neighboring countries. This could be one of the most positive outcomes for the entire continent in the coming years.

However, there are still major security risks because of armed groups that were loyal to the former president. These groups, often called "colectivos," are still active in many cities and might try to fight against the new acting government. There is a fear that the country could face a long period of internal fighting or even a civil war. Keeping these groups under control will be a very difficult task for the Venezuelan military and any international peacekeepers. Without safety on the streets, it will be impossible to rebuild the schools and hospitals that people need.

The immediate need for humanitarian aid is the most pressing issue for the citizens living there today. Many families have gone without proper medicine or clean water for a very long time. International groups like the Red Cross are preparing to send large shipments of food and supplies as soon as it is safe. Providing this help quickly will be essential to winning the trust of the public during this transition. If people see their lives getting better, they are more likely to support the new political changes.

Looking ahead, there is a possibility that Venezuela could hold new and fair elections later in 2026. Famous opposition leaders who were once in hiding or in jail are now hoping to run for office. This would be the first time in over twenty years that the country has a real chance at a fully democratic system. Many young Venezuelans have never seen a fair election in their entire lives. A successful vote would be a huge victory for democracy across all of South America.

Regional trade might also see a big boost as borders between Venezuela and its neighbors begin to reopen. In the past, trade was blocked because of political fights and economic sanctions. Now, trucks and ships could start moving goods back and forth again, which would help businesses in Colombia and Brazil grow. Rebuilding these economic ties will help the whole continent become more connected and prosperous. It turns a closed-off country back into a helpful partner for its neighbors.

Some experts are calling this new era the "Donroe Doctrine," based on the old Monroe Doctrine from the 1800s. It suggests that the United States is taking a much stronger role in controlling what happens in North and South America. While some people like the idea of a strong leader bringing order, others find it very frightening. They argue that every nation should have the right to solve its own problems without military interference. This debate will likely dominate politics in the region for the rest of the decade.

In conclusion, the capture of Nicolás Maduro is a turning point that brings both great hope and serious risks. South America is entering a period where the old rules of politics are being rewritten every single day. While the end of a long dictatorship is exciting for many, the way it happened has left a lot of people feeling uneasy. The next few months will show if Venezuela can become a stable democracy or if it will face more years of chaos. Everyone is watching closely to see what the future holds for this beautiful and important part of the world.

The Road to Recovery: Venezuela’s Future After a Change in Leadership 

If Nicolás Maduro were to leave power in Venezuela, it would be a major turning point for the nation. Many people have waited for this moment for a very long time because of the country's many struggles. A sudden change in leadership would create both excitement and a lot of uncertainty about the future. The international community would watch closely to see how the transition of power begins to unfold. It would mark the end of an era that has seen extreme economic and social challenges.

The first thing that would happen is the formation of a temporary or transitional government. This group would likely include leaders from the political opposition who have been fighting for change. They would need to work quickly to stabilize the country and keep the peace among the citizens. This phase is very important because it sets the tone for how the new democracy will function. Without a clear plan, the country could face confusion or even more political fighting.

One of the main goals of a new government would be to organize fair and free elections. People in Venezuela would finally feel like their voices and votes really matter in choosing their leaders. International observers would probably come to the country to make sure everything is done correctly and honestly. This process would take some time to organize because the voting systems might need to be rebuilt. Restoring trust in the democratic process is essential for the long-term health of the country.

The economy would be one of the biggest challenges for any leader who takes over after Maduro. Venezuela has suffered from hyperinflation, which means prices for basic goods go up very fast every day. A new administration would need to introduce new economic policies to stop the value of money from falling. They might work with global organizations like the International Monetary Fund to get financial help and advice. Stabilization of the currency would allow families to finally afford enough food and basic supplies again.

Venezuela has the largest oil reserves in the world, but the industry has struggled for many years. Under a new government, foreign companies might feel safe enough to come back and invest in oil production. Repairing the old equipment and refineries would be a top priority to start bringing in money for the country. This income would be used to fix schools, hospitals, and the broken electrical grid that causes blackouts. A healthy oil industry is the key to rebuilding the nation's wealth and providing jobs.

Many countries like the United States have placed sanctions on Venezuela to pressure the current government to change. If Maduro were ousted, these sanctions would likely be lifted very quickly to help the new leaders. Lifting these restrictions would allow Venezuela to trade more easily with other countries around the world. It would mean that ships carrying food and medicine could arrive at the ports without any problems. This global support would be a huge boost for the struggling economy and the local businesses.

The humanitarian situation in Venezuela is currently very difficult for millions of people living there today. A new government would focus on getting food and medicine to those who need it the most. International aid groups would be able to work more freely within the country to help the poor. Hospitals would finally get the supplies they need to treat patients who have been suffering for years. Improving the daily lives of the citizens would be the most immediate sign of success for the change.

Millions of people have left Venezuela over the last decade to find a better life in other countries. If the situation improves, many of these migrants might decide to return home to their families. This would bring back talented doctors, engineers, and teachers who are needed to rebuild the nation. However, the return of so many people would also put a lot of pressure on housing and services. The government would need a plan to help these returning citizens settle back into their old lives.

The physical infrastructure of the country, like roads and water systems, is in very bad shape right now. Frequent power outages have made life very difficult for people living in both cities and rural areas. A new government would need to spend billions of dollars to repair the electrical grid and water pipes. This work would create many new jobs for local workers and help the economy grow even faster. Reliable utilities are necessary for businesses to operate and for families to live in comfort.

There are groups called collectivos that have supported the current government and sometimes use violence to maintain control. Dealing with these armed groups would be a very delicate and dangerous task for a new administration. The police and military would need to be retrained to protect all citizens regardless of their political views. Ensuring safety on the streets is vital so that people feel comfortable going about their daily lives. Peace and security are the foundations upon which a new, stable society must be built.

The court system and the laws in Venezuela would also need a complete overhaul to ensure fairness. Judges would need to be independent so they can make decisions based on the law instead of politics. This would help to end corruption and make sure that everyone is held accountable for their actions. Foreign investors look for a strong legal system before they decide to put money into a country. A fair justice system protects the rights of every person and builds trust in the government.

Venezuela’s relationships with countries like Russia and China would likely change significantly after Maduro's departure. These countries have provided a lot of support to the current government in exchange for oil and influence. A new government might seek closer ties with the United States and European nations instead. They would have to balance these new friendships while still managing the debts owed to their old allies. Global diplomacy would play a huge role in how the country moves forward on the world stage.

The education system has suffered as many teachers left the country and schools fell into total disrepair. Rebuilding the schools and providing modern books and technology would be a major goal for the future. Similarly, the healthcare system needs more than just medicine; it needs modern equipment and well-paid medical staff. Investing in the health and education of the youth is the best way to ensure long-term success. A healthy and educated population will lead Venezuela toward a much brighter and more stable future.

The country is currently very divided between those who support the current government and those who want change. Social healing and reconciliation would be necessary to bring the people together after years of deep conflict. Programs that encourage dialogue and understanding between different groups could help to reduce the anger and resentment. It will take a long time for the emotional wounds of the past decade to fully heal. A unified country is much stronger and more resilient when facing the many challenges ahead.

While the path forward would be very difficult, the potential for a better Venezuela is very high. With the right leadership and international support, the country could once again become a prosperous leader in South America. The road to recovery is long, but the resilience of the Venezuelan people is truly very impressive. Change would bring hope to millions who have lived through one of the worst crises in history. Ultimately, the ousting of Maduro would be the first step in a very long journey toward peace.