U.S. President **Donald Trump has announced that Venezuela’s interim authorities will transfer between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States, marking a major development in relations between the two countries following recent geopolitical tensions.
Trump made the announcement in a post on his social media platform, saying the oil — described as “high-quality, sanctioned oil” — will be sold at market price, and that the proceeds will be controlled by him as President to ensure they benefit both Venezuelans and Americans.
He also said he has directed Energy Secretary Chris Wright to execute the transfer immediately, with storage ships moving the oil directly to U.S. unloading docks.
The move comes in the wake of a dramatic U.S. operation that saw Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro captured by American forces — a development that has intensified global scrutiny of U.S.–Venezuela relations and raised questions about energy strategy and regional stability.
U.S. officials have framed the arrangement as both a strategic and humanitarian measure, arguing that opening Venezuelan oil supplies to the U.S. will support energy markets and help stabilize the Venezuelan economy. Critics, however, warn the deal could deepen geopolitical tensions and may not deliver clear benefits to Venezuelans given the ongoing sanctions and political conflict.
The anticipated transfer, potentially worth several billion dollars at current prices, could also affect global oil markets; prices fell following the announcement on expectations of increased supply.