Washington, DC – US President Donald Trump stated that the United States will retain a portion of the revenue from Venezuelan oil sales. This move reflects a significant shift in Washington’s approach to Venezuela, a country that has been a source of intense political and economic conflict for years.
In remarks carried by news agencies, Trump added that retaining a portion of the revenue is necessary to “protect American interests.” He also emphasized that the US will not allow oil revenues to flow without oversight or clear compensation that serves its strategic priorities.
He explained that Venezuelan oil represents a crucial bargaining chip in the relationship with Caracas. He further indicated that any economic opening or easing of restrictions must be contingent upon political and economic guarantees. Chief among these guarantees, he asserted, are reforms and respect for the democratic process.
Trump’s remarks come at a time when Venezuela is striving to revive its oil sector after years of US sanctions. These sanctions have caused a sharp decline in production and exports, and have burdened the Venezuelan economy with a severe economic crisis.
Observers believe that Trump’s comments reflect a US tendency to use energy as a tool of political pressure. This tendency is particularly evident given the rapid shifts in global oil markets, especially with the ongoing search for alternative sources amidst successive geopolitical crises.
Analysts indicated that these statements could reignite tensions in relations between Washington and Caracas. This could occur if the Venezuelan government considers them an infringement on its sovereignty over its natural resources.
Trump concluded his remarks by affirming that the United States will continue to use all available tools to protect its interests. He also asserted that Venezuelan oil will remain a pivotal element in US policy calculations in the coming period.
