U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that discussions are underway with Venezuela’s transitional government to facilitate the sale of approximately 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, which had been stranded due to U.S.-imposed sanctions.
Over the past weekend, U.S. forces conducted an operation in Venezuela, resulting in the apprehension of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, who were subsequently transported out of the country. The United States has filed four charges against Maduro, including drug trafficking and the use of such illicit activities to support terrorism—allegations which Maduro has categorically denied.
With Vice President Delcy Rodriguez assuming the role of interim president, this marks the first official confirmation of formal negotiations between the transitional government and the United States.
In a social media post, Trump stated that between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil would be brought to the United States under a specialized arrangement for sale on the global market.
The President further clarified that the proceeds from these sales would be managed directly under his supervision and utilized for the benefit of both the Venezuelan and American people.
Based on current global market prices for Venezuelan crude, the total value of this agreement is estimated to exceed 1.9 billion US dollars.
President Trump had previously indicated that American oil companies would take over Venezuela’s stagnant oil industry and commit to significant investments.
According to various media reports, a meeting between representatives of these companies and relevant high-ranking U.S. government officials is scheduled for tomorrow.
