US Makes $500M Venezuelan Oil Deal; Some Proceeds Headed To Qatari Bank

"The Trump administration has completed its first Venezuelan oil sale, valued at $500 million, an administration official confirmed to The Hill on Wednesday. 

The official also said additional sales are expected in the coming days and weeks.

Semafor first reported the deal, including that revenue from it is being held in bank accounts, including one in Qatar, that are controlled by the U.S. government. 

“President Trump brokered a historic energy deal with Venezuela, immediately following the arrest of narco terrorist Nicolás Maduro, that will benefit the American and Venezuelan people,” White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said."

Julia Manchester reports for The Hill January 14, 2026.

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Source: The Hill, 01/16/2026