The United States will control Venezuela’s oil for an indefinite period

As part of preparations to ease longstanding sanctions on Venezuela’s crude oil in global markets, the United States has announced that it will maintain indefinite control over the sale of the South American nation’s sanctioned oil. The White House confirmed the development, emphasising Washington’s intent to retain leverage over Caracas amid ongoing political and economic tensions.

Officials indicated that in the initial phase, between 30 and 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude could be sold. Revenue from these sales will remain under U.S. government oversight, ensuring continued influence over Venezuela’s state operations and the pace of domestic reforms.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright highlighted the strategic rationale behind this approach, stating, “The changes that are inevitable in Venezuela require that we maintain influence and control to ensure these transitions occur responsibly.”

Financial analysts estimate that the initial oil sales could generate approximately $2.8 billion (around £2.1 billion). However, details remain unclear regarding the portion of this revenue that will be allocated to the Venezuelan government or reinvested in the country’s energy sector.

Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt stated that an agreement has been reached “between the two parties”, although she offered no further specifics. In contrast, Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, PDVSA, issued a statement clarifying that discussions over the oil sales are still ongoing and will proceed under the existing bilateral framework.

PDVSA added that the process will comply with established international agreements with other oil companies, reinforcing that the sales mechanism aligns with global industry standards. The company also emphasised that the aim is to maintain both operational transparency and adherence to international regulations.

Projected Details of U.S.-Controlled Venezuelan Oil Sales:

The indefinite U.S. oversight underscores Washington’s cautious approach in reopening Venezuelan oil markets while seeking to preserve strategic influence. Analysts suggest that this measure may allow gradual reintegration of Venezuelan crude into the global market without relinquishing financial or political leverage over Caracas, amid continuing uncertainty in the country’s energy sector and governance.