Trump Lifting Sanctions
The Trump administration is signaling a potential shift in U.S. policy toward Venezuela, with an eye on oil markets, economic stability, and American energy interests.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Reuters on Friday that the United States may ease certain sanctions on Venezuela to allow oil sales to move forward under U.S. oversight.
Officials say the goal is to stabilize Venezuela’s economy while ensuring transparency and protecting American taxpayers.
Frozen IMF Funds Could Be Used for Rebuilding
Bessent also noted that nearly $5 billion in frozen International Monetary Fund special drawing rights belonging to Venezuela could be unlocked and redirected toward rebuilding the country’s basic infrastructure.
The IMF has not formally engaged with Venezuela since the era of former leader Hugo Chávez, leaving billions in assets untouched for years.
According to Bessent, the Treasury Department is open to converting those assets into U.S. dollars as part of a structured recovery plan.
Trump: U.S. Will Oversee Transition for Stability
Following the removal of longtime ruler Nicolás Maduro, the future direction of Venezuela remains uncertain.
President Donald Trump has stated that the United States will oversee the country’s transition until its institutions are stable enough to function independently.
Maduro’s former vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, is currently serving in an interim role while U.S. officials coordinate next steps.
In an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Trump said elections cannot take place until Venezuela’s systems are restored.
“They wouldn’t even know how to run an election right now,” Trump said. “We have to rebuild first.”
Oil Sales to Support Recovery and U.S. Interests
Earlier statements from Trump suggested that American oil companies could eventually play a role in Venezuela’s vast petroleum sector—the largest proven reserves in the world.
However, Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified this week that U.S. oil firms will not move in immediately.
Speaking at a Goldman Sachs energy conference in Miami, Wright said Venezuela’s oil production will instead be sold on the open market for the foreseeable future.
“Going forward, production will be sold into the marketplace,” Wright said.
Trump has also stated that Venezuela is expected to deliver between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States. The oil will be sold at market prices, with proceeds directed toward rebuilding Venezuela while also supporting U.S. economic and energy goals.
Focus on Energy, Prices, and Accountability
Administration officials say the approach reflects President Trump’s business-focused strategy: restore production, maintain oversight, and prevent corruption—while helping stabilize global energy markets.
For American households concerned about gas prices, inflation, and foreign policy accountability, the administration says the plan puts U.S. interests first while avoiding long-term entanglements.
