US Signals Approval to Sell Venezuelan Oil to India Under Controlled Framework

Washington, January 10, 2026: The Trump administration has indicated that India may soon be allowed to purchase Venezuelan crude oil, marking a potential revival of trade that existed prior to US sanctions. India was previously a major buyer of Venezuelan oil, using the heavy crude in its specialized refineries.

A senior White House official confirmed that under a new controlled framework, the United States is prepared to permit India to import crude from Venezuela. The framework will be fully overseen by the US, ensuring that proceeds benefit the Venezuelan people rather than corrupt entities or the previous regime.

In a separate interview with Fox Business, US Energy Secretary Christopher Wright emphasized that the sale of Venezuelan oil will follow strict US regulations. “Only energy commerce that the US deems lawful and proper will be allowed,” Wright said, adding that military measures have been taken against unauthorized shipments.

The plan involves the sale of 30–50 million barrels currently held in Venezuelan storage, with continuous future production to be marketed under US supervision. Wright noted that US refiners, along with buyers in Europe, Asia, and other regions, have shown interest in Venezuelan crude. The initiative is aligned with former President Trump’s policy to reassert control over Venezuela’s oil resources while stabilizing global markets.

The move is expected to provide India with greater diversification in its energy imports and access to heavy crude for its refineries. With Venezuela holding the world’s largest certified oil reserves and India being one of the fastest-growing energy consumers, this deal could significantly impact global energy flows.