Trump says US has sold $13 billion of Venezuela oil since Maduro's capture

President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States has sold more than $13 billion worth of Venezuelan crude oil since the capture of President Nicolás Maduro's government assets. The statement, reported by CNBC, highlights a new phase in the long-running U.S. effort to pressure the Maduro regime through oil sanctions. For years, Washington has aimed to cut off revenue to Caracas by restricting Venezuelan oil exports, but the latest claim suggests the U.S. has itself become a seller of that oil. The figure, if accurate, would represent a significant shift in policy and a major financial blow to Maduro's government. The U.S. has recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as interim president and has imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA. However, the mechanics of how the U.S. sells Venezuelan oil remain unclear—whether it involves seized cargoes, licenses granted to private firms, or sales from the U.S. strategic petroleum reserve. The impact extends to global oil markets, U.S. refiners, and Venezuelan citizens who depend on oil revenue for social programs. Analysts are split on whether such sales undermine sanctions or effectively redirect funds to the opposition. The White House has not provided detailed proof of the $13 billion figure, and the claim is likely to face scrutiny from lawmakers and international observers. The next steps could involve legal challenges, audits, or further diplomatic reactions from Venezuela's allies.