U.S. completes first Venezuelan oil sale — ~$500 M

The United States has completed its first sales of Venezuelan oil valued at about $500 million under a new energy arrangement with Venezuela. This is part of a broader $2 billion deal agreed earlier this month between Washington and Caracas, and officials expect additional sales in the coming days and weeks. Revenue from the initial sale is being held in U.S.-controlled bank accounts (notably in Qatar) to ensure oversight and avoid seizure.

Under this arrangement, U.S. authorities are effectively marketing Venezuelan crude on global markets, marking a significant shift in how Venezuela’s oil is traded after prolonged sanctions and diplomatic conflict.

The move coincides with the Trump administration’s push to re-engage U.S. oil companies in Venezuela and rebuild the country’s struggling energy infrastructure. SLB (formerly Schlumberger), Chevron, and other service firms are positioning to benefit from expanded operations under the new policy.

What this means

✔ U.S. is now a direct seller of Venezuelan oil:
For the first time in the post-Maduro era, the U.S. has officially sold Venezuelan crude and is facilitating further transactions.

✔ Proceeds are tightly controlled:
Revenue is being held in U.S.-controlled accounts abroad, a move framed as protecting the funds and preventing seizure by creditors or hostile actors.

✔ Part of a broader energy strategy:
This sale is tied to a larger attempt to re-open Venezuelan oil production, draw in private investment, and influence global energy flows — even though some U.S. oil executives have been skeptical of investment risks.

Key Takeaways

• U.S. now selling Venezuelan oil: Washington has completed its first $500 million sale of Venezuelan crude, with more sales expected soon — a major shift from sanctions to direct control and marketing of the oil.

• Big ambitions, little buy-in: Trump is touting $100 billion in future investment, but top U.S. energy executives privately warned Venezuela remains “uninvestible” without major legal and commercial reforms.

• Oil discounted, profits controlled: Venezuelan crude is being offered at a discount to attract buyers, while proceeds are tightly controlled by the U.S., limiting Maduro-era access and creditor claims.

SOURCE: CNN

What a bunch of crooks. Trump doesn't even have the dignity of Nixon: "I'm not a crook!" That's a mighty low bar!