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Thursday 09/04/2026

US to Control Venezuelan Oil Sales Indefinitely Amid Controversy

Oil rig labeled US Control with cash flowing to Venezuela Policy documents
Daniel RiveraDaniel Rivera

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The US plans to control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely, starting with 30-50 million barrels, to influence Venezuela's government.
  • Revenue from oil sales, expected to reach $2.8 billion, will be managed by the US, with unclear portions allocated to Venezuela.
  • US officials, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright, emphasize using oil revenue to stabilize Venezuela's economy.
  • Criticism arises from US politicians and analysts, questioning the ethical and practical implications of the US's control over Venezuelan oil.
  • Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, expresses openness to energy relations with the US, despite past tensions.

The United States has announced plans to maintain control over Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely, a move that has sparked both strategic interest and ethical debate. The White House revealed that the initial sales would involve 30 to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude, with the revenue, estimated at $2.8 billion, being managed by the US government. This decision aims to leverage influence over Venezuela's government, according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who stated, "We need to have that leverage and control of those oil sales to drive the changes that simply must happen in Venezuela."

US Control and Revenue Management

The US administration has outlined a strategy to market Venezuelan oil, with proceeds deposited into US-controlled accounts. President Donald Trump emphasized that the funds would benefit both the Venezuelan people and the US. However, the exact portion of revenue to be shared with Venezuela remains unspecified. The US is also preparing to selectively roll back sanctions that have long restricted Venezuelan crude sales, a move that could reshape the global oil market.

Political Reactions and Criticism

The plan has faced criticism from various quarters, including US politicians. Senator Chris Murphy described the strategy as "insane," arguing that it amounts to "stealing the Venezuelan oil at gunpoint." Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the importance of using the funds to benefit the Venezuelan people and stabilize the country's economy.

Venezuelan Response and Future Relations

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, defended the decision to open the country's oil market to the US, despite past hostilities. She acknowledged the strained relations following the US's removal of Nicolás Maduro but expressed a willingness to engage in energy relations that benefit all parties. Rodríguez's stance suggests a potential shift in US-Venezuela relations, contingent on mutual economic interests.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The US's control over Venezuelan oil sales could significantly impact the global oil market, potentially stabilizing Venezuela's economy if managed effectively. However, the ethical implications and political backlash may complicate the execution of this strategy. Experts suggest that while the US aims to influence Venezuela's political landscape, the long-term success of this approach depends on transparent revenue management and genuine benefits for the Venezuelan populace. Additionally, the geopolitical ramifications, particularly concerning US relations with Russia and China, could further influence the outcome of this controversial policy.