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U.S. Sells Venezuelan Oil Amid Corruption Allegations

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. initiated the sale of Venezuelan oil in a $250 million deal with Vitol.
Vitol is a trading firm linked to a major donor to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign.
Critics, including U.S. Senators Chris Murphy and Cory Booker, say the deal is corrupt and allege that proceeds go to a Qatar-based account.
The sale supports a broader strategy to limit oil production, with more sales expected.

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Story summary

The U.S. initiated the sale of Venezuelan oil in a $250 million deal with Vitol.
Vitol is a trading firm linked to a major donor to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign.
Critics, including U.S. Senators Chris Murphy and Cory Booker, say the deal is corrupt and allege that proceeds go to a Qatar-based account.
The sale supports a broader strategy to limit oil production, with more sales expected.