President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the U.S. has entered a deal with Venezuela to take control of 65 billion barrels of oil reserves [1].
The agreement represents a major shift in North American energy strategy by securing vast foreign reserves to potentially lower domestic gas prices [4].
The partnership is scheduled to last for 25 years [2]. Under the terms of the deal, the U.S. will hold majority control over the specified reserves [2].
"The United States has entered a deal with Venezuela to take control of 65 billion barrels of oil reserves," Trump said [1].
Financial projections associated with the deal suggest private investment will reach approximately $100 billion [3]. This influx of capital is expected to modernize extraction infrastructure in the region.
Rep. Rick Crawford (R-AR) said the energy partnership is of strategic importance. The move aims to stabilize energy supplies and reduce reliance on other volatile global markets — a priority for the current administration.
The deal comes after years of diplomatic tension between Washington and Caracas. By securing these reserves, the U.S. government seeks to insulate the domestic economy from external price shocks, and expand its influence over one of the world's largest oil deposits [1].
“The U.S. has entered a deal with Venezuela to take control of 65 billion barrels of oil reserves.”
This agreement marks a significant pivot in U.S. foreign policy toward Venezuela, prioritizing energy security over previous diplomatic sanctions. By gaining majority control over these reserves, the U.S. creates a long-term hedge against global oil price volatility and increases its geopolitical leverage in South America.
