The United States government announced on Friday, January 9, 2026, that it intends to maintain indefinite control over the sale of Venezuelan oil. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed the administration’s position, stating that all proceeds from the sale of Venezuelan crude will be managed through U.S.-controlled accounts to ensure the funds are not utilized by the current Caracas administration.
This move comes as the Trump administration intensifies its “maximum pressure” campaign against Venezuela, following recent military actions and the imposition of a total energy blockade. By seizing control of the revenue streams, the U.S. aims to cripple the financial base of the Venezuelan government while redirecting the energy resources to stabilize global markets and favor American interests. Secretary Wright emphasized that this policy is a necessary step to ensure “regional security” and to prevent the “misuse of natural resources” by a hostile regime.
The strategy is being executed through the Department of Energy and the Treasury, which have established a rigid oversight mechanism for any entity involved in the purchase or transport of Venezuelan petroleum. Under this directive, international buyers must deposit payments into designated escrow accounts held in the United States, effectively stripping Venezuela of its primary source of foreign currency. While the U.S. argues this is a move toward restoring democracy and energy transparency, international critics and Venezuelan officials have slammed the policy as an act of economic “piracy” and a violation of international law regarding national sovereignty.
