Trump Discusses Venezuelan Oil Transport

President Trump revealed that the U.S. has transported Venezuelan oil using seven recently seized tankers, although he did not disclose their current locations.

“I’m not allowed to tell you,” he remarked during an interview in the Oval Office. “But let’s just say: They don’t have the oil. We take the oil.”

While speaking, he was positioned at his resolution desk.

Behind him was the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded to him by Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Colina Machado, prominently displayed near a golden eagle statue.

Trump mentioned he is still contemplating where to place the award within the White House.

He noted that Venezuelan crude oil is currently being processed at refineries in the U.S., specifically in Houston.

“Oil is coming into refineries in different parts of Houston,” he explained.

A plan is in place for the U.S. to sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil at market prices.

Trump stated, “We run oil in Venezuela. Venezuela is going to get some, we’re going to get some, and the big oil companies are going to come in and they’re going to get a lot of oil, so Venezuela is going to make more money than they’ve ever made before.”

Following the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on January 3, the Trump administration has aimed to manage the country’s oil production, refining, and distribution globally.

Earlier this month, he met with oil executives to discuss a potential $100 billion investment in Venezuela aimed at improving the oil sector.

Officials expect to use the revenue from the seized tankers to assist in reconstruction efforts.

Additionally, Trump indicated that the U.S. government would provide reparations to American oil companies to help revive Venezuela’s energy industry.

When discussing interim President Delcy Rodriguez, Trump expressed satisfaction, stating, “We have a great relationship with the new president. She was wonderful.”