The Central Intelligence Agency sought advice from former Chevron executive Ali Moshiri before President Trump's attempt to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, according to Wall Street Journal reporting. Moshiri provided insights into Venezuela's leadership dynamics and opposition forces during critical planning months.

This engagement reveals how the Trump administration has adopted the energy sector's pragmatic approach to dealing with autocratic governments. The former executive's expertise in navigating Venezuela's complex political landscape proved valuable as U.S. officials considered potential successors to Maduro's regime.

The collaboration between intelligence officials and energy industry veterans suggests a convergence of business and geopolitical strategies. Moshiri's involvement highlights how private sector experience in volatile regions can inform government operations, particularly when dealing with oil-rich nations where commercial interests often intersect with diplomatic objectives.