Trump Secures 50 Million Barrels of Venezuelan Oil Following Maduro Arrest

The United States plans to receive up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil under a new arrangement announced by President Donald Trump. The move follows a major political shift in Caracas and renewed energy talks. Security, sanctions, and control of funds now shape the next phase of US–Venezuela relations.

US President Donald Trump said Venezuela’s interim authorities agreed to transfer 30 to 50 million barrels of crude oil to the United States. The oil will sell at market rates. Trump said the revenue will remain under his control.

Trump said the funds will support the people of Venezuela and the United States. He asked Energy Secretary Chris Wright to move the plan forward. The oil will ship directly to US ports and supply American refineries.

According to Reuters, the shipment could reach a value of nearly $2 billion at current prices. The oil includes barrels blocked by US sanctions since mid-December 2025. Imports had stopped weeks earlier due to political tensions and enforcement measures.

The announcement came days after a US military operation detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. US officials transferred them to American custody. The move triggered protests and mourning inside Venezuela.

Bloomberg reported that Venezuela’s interim leadership rejected claims of US control over national assets. Interim leader Delcy Rodríguez said the country remains sovereign. Authorities declared days of mourning after clashes during the operation.

Meanwhile, US oil companies moved fast. Industry executives are expected at the White House this week. They plan to discuss future investment and energy access in Venezuela. The talks could reopen long-blocked projects.

The White House says the deal may ease pressure on global oil supply. Analysts say it also shifts regional politics. Venezuelan oil once flowed mainly to China. Washington now wants that supply redirected.

For now, markets watch shipping timelines and legal terms. The scale of the transfer makes this one of the largest oil moves tied to sanctions in recent years.