President Donald Trump has announced a new energy agreement between the United States and Venezuela, aimed at strengthening national security and economic ties in the Western Hemisphere.
According to the announcement, on January 3, 2026, U.S. authorities apprehended Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who had been indicted for multiple violent crimes, including charges related to narco-terrorism conspiracy. Three days later, President Trump revealed an energy deal intended to help restore Venezuela’s role as a responsible ally of the United States.
Secretary Wright and the Department of Energy are collaborating with interim Venezuelan authorities and private industry partners to implement this initiative.
The agreement involves the United States government marketing Venezuelan crude oil internationally. Leading commodity marketers and key banks have been engaged to facilitate these sales and provide financial backing. All proceeds from these transactions will be held in U.S.-controlled accounts at recognized global banks. The distribution of funds will be managed by the U.S. government for the benefit of both American and Venezuelan citizens.
“These oil sales begin immediately with the anticipated sale of approximately 30 – 50 million barrels. They will continue indefinitely,” according to information released about the deal.
Only authorized channels consistent with U.S. law will handle oil transport into and out of Venezuela under this arrangement. The United States is also easing certain sanctions to allow for legal transport and sale of Venezuelan crude on global markets.
To optimize production, U.S.-sourced diluent (light crude oil) will be sent to Venezuela as needed for mixing with heavier local crude. Additionally, select imports of oil field equipment, parts, and services have been authorized by U.S. officials to support modernization efforts in Venezuela’s oil sector.
The agreement addresses challenges beyond oil production as well: “Venezuela’s electricity grid is dilapidated and fragile after years of socialist mismanagement, corruption, and poor maintenance,” states one part of the announcement. Efforts are planned to improve electrical infrastructure as part of broader measures supporting increased economic activity in Venezuela.
