The United States has completed **the first sale of Venezuelan oil**, valued at approximately **$500 million (about 430 million euros)**, under the $2 billion energy deal reached with Venezuela earlier this month, a senior U.S. administration official announced
The initial crude sales are part of a broader plan that includes the total supply of up to 50 million barrels from Venezuela to the U.S. market. The official indicated that "the proceeds from this transaction have been deposited into bank accounts under the control of the U.S. Government," with the aim of facilitating management, and that more sales are expected in the coming days and weeks.
The funds are deposited in an account in Qatar, chosen for being a neutral location that allows the money to be moved with authorization from the United States and prevents it from being blocked by third parties.
The first sale of Venezuelan oil to the United States shows a shift in the country's policy after years of sanctions by Donald Trump, who sought to isolate Caracas, while the current administration tries to control relations
Although the names of the buyers in this first sale have not yet been made public, the operation could have relevant consequences in energy markets if the flow of Venezuelan-US crude is consolidated
The agreement also reflects the shift in U.S. policy toward Venezuela, after years of sanctions and economic blockade under the Donald Trump administration, and how this change could affect geopolitical and energy dynamics in Latin America, as well as Venezuela's position in the global oil market.