President Trump announced a new energy agreement between the United States and Venezuela on January 6, 2026. The deal is intended to enhance U.S. national security in the Western Hemisphere and support Venezuela's return as an ally.
According to the White House, "Thanks to President Trump, the United States is restoring prosperity, safety, and security to the United States and Venezuela." The statement referenced Venezuela's past economic strength but noted that for more than twenty years, changes in leadership led to economic decline and instability.
The administration reported that Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro was apprehended by U.S. authorities on January 3, 2026. He had previously been indicted for several violent crimes including narco-terrorism conspiracy.
Secretary Wright and the Department of Energy are working with interim Venezuelan authorities and private industry to implement the energy deal. Under this arrangement, "The United States government has begun marketing Venezuelan crude oil in the global marketplace for the benefit of the United States, Venezuela, and our allies. We have engaged the world’s leading commodity marketers and key banks to execute and provide financial support for these crude oil and crude products sales."
All proceeds from oil sales will be deposited in U.S.-controlled accounts at major banks. "These funds will be disbursed for the benefit of the American people and the Venezuelan people at the discretion of the U.S. government," according to officials. Initial oil sales are expected to reach between 30–50 million barrels, with further transactions planned.
Oil exports from Venezuela will occur only through authorized channels under U.S. law. To facilitate these operations, some sanctions are being lifted so that Venezuelan crude can be transported and sold globally.
U.S.-produced diluent (light crude oil) will be sent to Venezuela as needed to improve processing of its heavy crude oil resources. Additionally, imports of select equipment and services will be permitted in order to modernize Venezuela’s energy sector using technology and investment from American companies as well as other international partners.
Venezuela's electricity grid has experienced significant decline after years of limited investment and poor maintenance practices. Nationwide electricity production has fallen by over 30 percent due to inadequate management. The agreement includes plans for improvements to Venezuela’s electrical infrastructure as part of efforts aimed at increasing oil production capacity and improving living conditions for residents.
