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U.S. Seizes Venezuelan Oil to Fund Policy Changes

1/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The United States (U.S.) plans to control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely after Nicolás Maduro's capture.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the U.S. will market Venezuelan crude, starting with 30 to 50 million barrels.
Revenues would be deposited into U.S.-controlled accounts to fund policy aims in Venezuela.
The plan seeks to leverage oil sales to compel changes and urges cooperation with Venezuelan officials and U.S. oil companies.

History

Historical Context

Since 2005, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, escalating significantly in 2019 when the Treasury Department aimed to cut off over $20 billion in oil revenue to Nicolás Maduro's regime. This strategy reflects a historical U.S. approach of leveraging economic power to influence political change in Latin America, particularly during crises like the 2019 Venezuelan presidential crisis.

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Story summary

The United States (U.S.) plans to control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely after Nicolás Maduro's capture.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the U.S. will market Venezuelan crude, starting with 30 to 50 million barrels.
Revenues would be deposited into U.S.-controlled accounts to fund policy aims in Venezuela.
The plan seeks to leverage oil sales to compel changes and urges cooperation with Venezuelan officials and U.S. oil companies.

1 / 2