Washington, Jan 7, 2026 — US President Donald J. Trump has announced that Venezuela’s interim authorities will transfer between 30 and 50 million barrels of high-quality oil to the United States, marking a dramatic move in Washington’s approach toward the crisis-hit South American nation.
In a statement posted on his verified social media account, Trump said the oil—described as “sanctioned”—will be sold at market price, with the revenue placed under the control of the US president to ensure it benefits both the Venezuelan and American people.
Trump added that he has instructed US Energy Secretary Chris Wright to execute the plan immediately. According to the announcement, the oil will be transported via storage ships and delivered directly to unloading docks in the United States.
“This oil will be sold at its market price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America,” Trump said, claiming the funds would be used transparently for mutual benefit.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in the United States and ongoing uncertainty over Venezuela’s political leadership and oil sector governance.
Analysts say the proposal, if implemented, would represent an unprecedented assertion of US control over Venezuelan energy resources and could further reshape geopolitical dynamics in the Western Hemisphere.
Trump Announces Plan to Transfer Venezuelan Oil to United States
US president says interim Venezuelan authorities will hand over up to 50 million barrels of sanctioned oil, with proceeds to be controlled by Washington
President Donald Trump announced plans for the transfer of millions of barrels of Venezuelan oil to the United States.
