The United States has completed its first sale of Venezuelan oil valued at approximately $500 million. According to Semafor, the primary account for holding the proceeds is in Qatar, and the funds are distributed across multiple bank accounts controlled by the US administration. Given the sanctions regime targeting Venezuela, Washington has selected Qatar as a neutral venue with a low risk of asset seizure.

The sale of Venezuelan crude oil reflects a strategic pivot in US policy toward the region. Control over oil revenues allows the American administration to influence how funds are spent and to steer them in line with its interests. Placing accounts in Qatar reduces the risk that capital could be blocked or intercepted by third countries or by the Venezuelan government.

US President Donald Trump said he had a phone call with Venezuelan presidential representative Delcy Rodriguez, describing the conversation as “long and productive.” This indicates ongoing talks between the US and Venezuelan authorities over terms of cooperation in the oil sector and revenue management. The successful sale of the first cargo shipment demonstrates the feasibility of a plan to monetize Venezuela’s energy resources.