Trump Says U.S. Could Oversee Venezuela and Control Oil Revenues for Years in Major Policy Shift

Trump Signals Long-Term U.S. Oversight of Venezuela, Eyes Control of Oil Revenue

President Donald Trump has announced that the United States could oversee Venezuela and control its oil revenues for years, signaling a long-term U.S. strategy in the region. In a wide-ranging interview published Thursday, Trump said Washington plans to rebuild Venezuela’s oil industry and make it “very profitable” while providing financial aid to the country.

“Only time will tell how long the United States will oversee Venezuela… I would say much longer,” Trump told the New York Times.

U.S. Plans for Venezuelan Oil

Trump outlined plans to refine and sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil currently blocked under U.S. sanctions. He emphasized that the initiative would bring down oil prices globally while supporting Venezuela’s economy.

“We’re going to be using oil, and we’re going to be taking oil. We’re getting oil prices down, and we’re going to be giving money to Venezuela, which they desperately need,” Trump said.

Senior U.S. officials have stated that controlling Venezuela’s oil sales is key to restoring the country’s energy infrastructure and stabilizing its economy. Trump is scheduled to meet with top U.S. oil companies, including Exxon Mobil, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron, to discuss increasing oil production.

Diplomacy With Colombia

Trump also appeared to ease tensions with Colombia after previously threatening military action. He recently spoke with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, describing the conversation as “cordial” and emphasizing ongoing cooperation on drug enforcement and other issues.

U.S. Strategy Without Military Occupation

Despite the aggressive language, U.S. officials indicate the goal is influence rather than a direct military occupation. Trump emphasized communication with Venezuela’s interim government, including Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, while maintaining close coordination with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Implications for the Region

Trump’s plan has raised eyebrows even within his own party, with some Republicans wary of prolonged U.S. involvement abroad. The Senate is considering a resolution to restrict further action without congressional approval, but past measures have faced narrow defeats.

Venezuela, home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves, has experienced economic collapse and mass migration in recent decades. Trump’s approach signals a focus on using U.S. influence to rebuild Venezuela’s energy sector while benefiting both nations economically.

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