On Tuesday, President Donald Trump announced on social media that Venezuela’s "Interim Authorities" would supply the United States with 30–50 million barrels of high-quality oil at market price.
The announcement was made Tuesday, following Caracas officials’ report that at least 24 Venezuelan security officers were killed in a dead‑of‑night U.S. military operation to capture Nicolás Maduro and bring him to the United States on drug charges.
Donald Trump took to Truth Social and posted that the oil “will be taken by storage ships, and brought directly to unloading docks in the United States.” He also mentioned that, as President, he would oversee the funds, ensuring they are used to benefit both the Venezuelan and American populations. Trump added that Energy Secretary Chris Wright will execute the plan immediately.
The White House is planning an Oval Office meeting on Friday, January 9, with executives from oil companies to discuss Venezuela. Representatives from Exxon, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips are anticipated to be present, according to a source. Mr. Trump has announced that his administration will now oversee Venezuela's policy and is urging the nation's leaders to allow American energy firms access to its extensive oil reserves.
Venezuelan officials announced the death count in the strike where Maduro was captured, as the country’s acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, pushed back on Mr. Trump. Trump earlier this week warned that Delcy Rodriguez, who was recently sworn in as interim president, would face an outcome worse than Mr. Maduro’s if she does not “do what’s right” and overhaul Venezuela into a country that aligns with U.S. interests.