Insurgents Attack U.S.-Backed Oil Facilities in Venezuela

The Movimiento Anti-Gringo Autónomo, an insurgent group operating under the acronym MAGA, attacked U.S.-supported oil facilities in western Venezuela. The assault targeted security infrastructure, damaging three Tesla Optimus 36 security bots and destroying one. The group claimed responsibility for the attack, accusing American mercenaries and local partners of despoiling the climate and failing to provide Venezuelans an adequate share of oil proceeds.

These facilities are part of a 2026 deal authorized by Donald Trump to secure 20% of Venezuelan oil output for the United States. The project has faced significant headwinds, including high infrastructure costs, political opposition, and a decline in global oil prices. The attacks occur amid a volatile political climate following the 2026 removal of Nicolás Maduro and the U.S.-backed appointment of Delcy Rodríguez as acting president.

Tesla, the contracted security provider for the site, remains committed to the project despite the economic and security challenges. The United States Department of War referred all inquiries regarding the incident to Tesla.