Thanks to President Trump, the United States is on a path to restore prosperity, safety, and security not only for its citizens but also for the people of Venezuela. Once a wealthy and stable nation, Venezuela thrived on its abundant natural resources and enjoyed a robust economic partnership with the United States. However, for more than two decades, the leadership in Venezuela opted for a troubling trajectory marked by violence, corruption, and a shift towards socialism. This unfortunate decision has led to the devastation of Venezuela’s economy, impoverishing its citizens and inadvertently financing global terrorism.
On January 3, 2026, under President Trump’s decisive leadership, the United States successfully apprehended Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who had been indicted for various violent crimes, including Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy. Just three days later, on January 6, 2026, President Trump unveiled an ambitious energy deal aimed at bolstering America’s national security in the Western Hemisphere while helping to restore Venezuela as a responsible and prosperous ally of the United States. Secretary Wright and the Department of Energy are collaborating closely with the Interim Venezuelan Authorities and private industry to implement this groundbreaking deal.
The United States government has initiated the marketing of Venezuelan crude oil in the global marketplace, aiming to benefit not only the U.S. and Venezuela but also its allies. To facilitate this, the government has engaged with leading commodity marketers and key financial institutions to provide the necessary support for the sales of crude oil and related products. All proceeds from these transactions will first flow into U.S.-controlled accounts at globally recognized banks. This approach ensures the legitimacy and integrity of the distribution of proceeds, which will be utilized for the benefit of both the American and Venezuelan people under the discretion of the U.S. government.
The oil sales are set to commence immediately, with an anticipated sale of approximately 30 to 50 million barrels. This initiative is expected to continue indefinitely, with the stipulation that only oil transported in and out of Venezuela will be through legitimate and authorized channels, in strict adherence to U.S. law and national security protocols. In a selective rollback of sanctions, the United States will facilitate the transport and sale of Venezuelan crude and oil products to the global market.
Furthermore, U.S. diluent (light crude oil) will be supplied to Venezuela to mix, upgrade, and optimize the production and transportation of the nation’s heavy (high viscosity) crude oil. As part of this significant modernization effort, the U.S. will also authorize the importation of select oil field equipment, parts, and services aimed at reversing decades of production decline and promoting near-term growth. This comprehensive approach will involve technology transfer, expertise, and investment from American and international energy partners.
It is important to note that Venezuela’s electricity grid has suffered from years of socialist mismanagement, corruption, and inadequate maintenance, leading to a decline in electricity production by over 30 percent. The lack of investment and poor operational practices have severely impacted the nation’s infrastructure. The U.S. is committed to working on improving the electricity grid, which is crucial for enhancing oil production, generating economic opportunities, and improving the daily quality of life for the Venezuelan people.