Doug Burgum is in the news as U.S. Interior Secretary under Trump since 2025, focusing on energy, mining, and offshore projects.
The US government has launched Project Vault, a $12 billion strategic reserve of critical minerals funded by a $10 billion loan from the US Export-Import Bank and $1.67 billion in private capital. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on China’s dominance in rare earth minerals, securing vital materials for manufacturing vehicles, electronics, and defense technologies. Over 55 countries are collaborating to diversify supply chains.
U.S. officials, including Governor Burgum, visited Venezuela to discuss resource reforms and investment. The Venezuelan interim government plans to introduce new mining laws to attract foreign companies, amid efforts to restore diplomatic ties and boost the economy, focusing on critical minerals like gold and rare earths.
Since late February 2026, US-led strikes on Iran have escalated tensions, closing the Strait of Hormuz and disrupting global oil supplies. Oil prices surged above $100 per barrel, pushing US gasoline prices to $3.59 per gallon. President Trump downplays the economic impact, emphasizing the conflict's urgency, while Republicans worry about midterm election fallout amid rising fuel costs.
On March 14, 2026, the US embassy in Caracas ceremonially raised the American flag, marking the resumption of diplomatic activities seven years after the flag was lowered. This follows the US capture of former President Maduro and the installation of interim President Delcy Rodríguez, with ongoing negotiations focused on Venezuela's oil and mineral resources.
The US has issued a license allowing Venezuela's Minerven to export gold to the US, excluding countries like Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and Russia. The move aims to facilitate investment and resource recovery amid ongoing sanctions and political shifts in Venezuela.
Venezuela has introduced a new bill aimed at attracting foreign investment in its mineral sector, including critical minerals. The legislation seeks to improve confidence among investors, regulate mineral rights, and curb illegal mining, amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the country following recent US diplomatic engagement.
Venezuelan President Maduro faces U.S. legal challenges after his arrest in a U.S. military raid. His lawyers argue that U.S. sanctions interfere with his right to legal defense, while prosecutors cite administrative errors. Meanwhile, U.S. officials continue efforts to influence Venezuela's leadership and economy.
The US Interior Department announced that TotalEnergies will receive nearly $928 million to cancel offshore wind leases off North Carolina and New York. The company will instead invest in US fossil fuel projects, including a liquefied natural gas plant in Texas, reflecting a shift away from renewable energy under the current administration.
The Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Ohio is being transformed into the PORTS Technology Campus, featuring a 10-gigawatt data center and up to 10 gigawatts of new power generation, including natural gas. The project aims to support AI, fusion energy, and national security research, creating thousands of jobs.
The Endangered Species Committee, known as the 'God Squad,' voted to exempt oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico from endangered species protections. The move, justified by national security concerns, follows a request from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth amid rising energy prices and global tensions. Environmental groups oppose the exemption, citing risks to species like the Rice's whale.
Venezuela has introduced a new mining law aimed at attracting foreign investment and regulating mineral rights. The legislation follows US pressure and shifts away from state control, despite ongoing security issues and illegal mining activities in Bolivar, where armed groups and criminal organizations operate with alleged government collusion. The law now awaits constitutional review.
The US Commission of Fine Arts, appointed by President Trump, has approved the design for a 250-foot Independence Arch near Arlington National Cemetery to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. The arch faces legal challenges from veterans concerned about obstructed views of Arlington Cemetery. The project is part of Trump's broader efforts to reshape Washington, D.C.'s landmarks.
The Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial has been coated with an American-flag blue surface after a cost-cutting decision redirected from a granite renovation. Officials say the project is underway, with a rapid timeline and substantial cost savings, while broader capital-renovation plans continue to unfold.