President Donald J. Trump announced on January 6, 2026 that interim authorities in Venezuela will deliver between 30 million and 50 million barrels of sanctioned, high‑quality crude oil to the United States. The announcement was made in a post on Truth Social, which outlined the plan and its intended execution.
According to Trump’s post, this oil will be sold at market price once received in the United States, with the proceeds under the direct control of the U.S. President. He stated that the funds from these sales would be used to “benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States.”
The plan, as described in the Truth Social text, directs Energy Secretary Chris Wright to begin implementation “immediately.” The oil is to be transported by storage ships directly to unloading docks in the United States.
This announcement follows recent geopolitical developments in Venezuela, where leadership changes have occurred amid U.S. military operations. The term “interim authorities” refers to temporary governance structures in place following the removal of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power earlier in January 2026.
Trump’s message emphasizes the strategic and economic importance of the oil transfer, highlighting both nations in its intended benefit. No additional details on the legal mechanisms, contract terms, or timeline for the oil deliveries were provided in the announcement.
