Trump’s decision pays off just in time.
A major decision by President Donald Trump on energy policy is beginning to show results, as the United States moves forward with a new partnership with Venezuela that could help strengthen America’s energy security and stabilize global oil markets.
According to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the relationship between the two countries is advancing rapidly and could play a major role in keeping energy affordable for American families.
Speaking during a visit to Venezuela this week, Burgum described the cooperation as moving at “Trump speed,” highlighting how quickly the two nations are working to rebuild economic ties centered around oil, natural gas, and critical minerals.
For many Americans concerned about gas prices, energy independence, and economic growth, the developments could represent a significant shift in the global energy landscape.
Why Geography Makes Venezuela a Strategic Partner
One of the biggest advantages of working with Venezuela is simple geography.
Burgum explained that shipping oil from Venezuela to refineries along the U.S. Gulf Coast can take as little as five days. By comparison, oil shipments from other parts of the world often take several weeks to arrive.
That difference in shipping time can reduce costs and improve reliability for American refineries.
“You really can’t argue with geography,” Burgum said, pointing out that closer supply chains often translate into lower transportation costs and greater energy stability.
American energy companies have already begun exploring new investment opportunities in Venezuela as the partnership develops.
American Energy Companies Step In
During the visit, Burgum met with several major oil and gas companies to discuss expanding production and strengthening cooperation between American and Venezuelan energy sectors.
Executives from global energy companies—including Chevron and Shell—were among those participating in discussions with Venezuelan business leaders.
The goal is to expand oil and natural gas production while also exploring opportunities in critical minerals, which are essential for modern technology, infrastructure, and national defense.
The renewed cooperation is being viewed by some energy experts as a major step toward strengthening Western energy alliances.
Major Natural Gas Project Moves Forward
One of the most significant developments announced during the trip involves a new natural gas project.
Energy giant Shell signed a memorandum of understanding with the Venezuelan government to begin developing liquefied natural gas (LNG) production at the Dragon gas field.
Several companies are expected to participate in the project, including:
- American service firms KPR and Baker
- Venezuelan engineering company Vepica
The project could help unlock additional natural gas supplies that may eventually be exported to global markets.
Administration officials say the LNG could potentially help supply electricity to Europe, providing another alternative to energy sources dominated by geopolitical rivals.
A Strategy to Reduce Global Dependence on China
Another key objective of the Trump administration’s strategy is reducing global reliance on China-controlled energy supply chains.
By expanding production and partnerships across the Western Hemisphere, officials believe the United States can strengthen its position in global energy markets while also supporting friendly nations.
Increasing oil and mineral production in Venezuela—with American investment—could help shift the balance of global energy supply toward countries aligned with the United States.
For supporters of the plan, it represents a major move toward long-term American energy leadership.
The First Major Oil Deal Already Completed
The cooperation between the two countries is already producing results.
Earlier this year, the Trump administration completed its first major purchase of Venezuelan oil, valued at approximately $500 million.
The agreement followed another announcement from President Trump that interim authorities in Venezuela would transfer between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States.
At current market prices, that supply could be worth roughly $2.8 billion.
Supporters of the deal say it strengthens American access to energy supplies while helping stabilize global markets.
Venezuela’s Enormous Oil Potential
Venezuela possesses some of the largest oil reserves on the planet.
Experts estimate the country holds more than 300 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, significantly larger than many other major producers.
If those resources are developed efficiently, Venezuela could become one of the world’s most powerful energy exporters.
Burgum suggested that renewed cooperation between the two countries could unlock enormous economic potential for both nations.
“This country has the resources to be one of the richest in the world,” Burgum said, adding that a strong partnership with the United States would benefit both economies.
What It Could Mean for American Energy Prices
While global energy markets remain unpredictable, the administration believes the partnership could help improve supply stability and prevent major price spikes.
Expanding production in nearby countries can shorten supply chains and reduce transportation costs—factors that can eventually influence the price Americans pay at the pump.
Officials say that stronger cooperation with energy producers across the Western Hemisphere is part of a broader strategy to support American energy independence.
If the initiative continues to expand, it could become one of the most significant energy developments of the Trump presidency.
