Trump Says Venezuela to Ship Up to 50 Million Barrels of Oil to US

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela will send between 30 and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States under a newly disclosed arrangement with the country’s interim authorities, a move that would involve crude currently subject to U.S. sanctions.

In a statement posted on social media, Trump said the oil, described as “high-quality”, would be sold at market prices, with the proceeds managed directly by him to ensure benefits for both Venezuela and the United States. He did not provide details on the legal framework of the deal or how it would comply with existing sanctions.

“I am pleased to announce that the interim authorities in Venezuela will deliver between 30 and 50 million barrels of high-quality, sanctioned oil to the United States,” Trump wrote. “These funds will be controlled by me, as President of the United States, to ensure they are used for the benefit of the Venezuelan and American people.”

U.S. officials did not immediately comment. Representatives from the White House and the Department of Energy declined to respond to requests for clarification, leaving questions about implementation, oversight, and international legality unanswered.

Based on recent production levels before U.S. sanctions were imposed, the volume cited by Trump would represent roughly 30 to 50 days of Venezuela’s oil output. At current prices for West Texas Intermediate crude, the shipment could be worth more than $2.8 billion.

Trump said the oil would be transported via storage tankers and delivered directly to U.S. unloading terminals. He added that he had instructed Energy Secretary Chris Wright to execute the plan “immediately.”

The United States currently produces about 13.8 million barrels of oil per day, making it the world’s largest producer. Analysts note that while the Venezuelan shipment would not materially alter U.S. supply levels, it could carry significant geopolitical implications.

Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, but years of underinvestment, mismanagement, and sanctions have sharply reduced output from its 1970s peak. Many U.S. oil companies exited the country over the past two decades, further constraining production capacity.

Trump also highlighted Venezuela’s long-term potential, suggesting the agreement could mark a turning point in energy cooperation. However, analysts caution that without clear authorization from U.S. regulatory bodies and coordination with allies, the proposal may face legal and diplomatic obstacles.