Initial Sale Volume and Private‑Trader Structure The administration plans to sell an initial 30 million to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude that were under sanctions, keeping all proceeds in U.S.–controlled accounts and directing them to Venezuelan humanitarian needs[1][2]. It intends to use international oil traders and offshore bank accounts rather than the Treasury Department to execute the sales, a tactic that has drawn sharp congressional criticism[2]. The strategy is presented as a makeshift solution to prevent market chaos after the ouster of Maduro[1].

Unresolved Legal Authority and Congressional Oversight Article 1 notes that the Constitution grants Congress the power to raise and spend funds, raising questions about the president’s unilateral control of oil revenues[1]. The administration has not secured formal cooperation from interim President Delcy Rodríguez or state oil company PDVSA, leaving the legal basis for seizure unsettled[2]. Lawmakers are reviewing the plan, with some Democrats labeling the use of private traders and offshore accounts as unprecedented and potentially unaccountable[2].

Industry Skepticism Over Reconstruction Investment Energy Secretary Chris Wright has reached out to U.S. energy CEOs and scheduled a White House meeting, but executives remain doubtful about committing tens of billions of dollars to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure[2]. Companies cite security concerns, ongoing militia activity, and unclear legal authority as major deterrents to long‑term investment[2]. The administration’s promise to channel initial sale proceeds into reconstruction has not yet convinced the private sector of a viable return on investment[2].

Administration Frames Plan as Security Leverage and Humanitarian Aid Officials argue that controlling Venezuelan oil sales will reduce criminal activity linked to the sector and provide leverage to pressure the regime[1]. Rubio and White House officials claim the proceeds will be used to purchase American goods for Venezuelans, positioning the scheme as both a security measure and a boost to U.S. industry[1][1]. The plan is portrayed as a market‑based, fair approach that could end the embargo’s effects while benefiting the Venezuelan people[1].