Washington:
In a significant policy move, US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that Venezuela will purchase only American-made products using the funds it receives from its newly negotiated oil deal with the United States.
In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump said the arrangement ensures that Venezuela will prioritise purchasing American agricultural products, medicines, medical devices, electric grid equipment and energy infrastructure support, among other essential supplies.
“I have just been informed that Venezuela is going to be purchasing ONLY American Made Products, with the money they receive from our new Oil Deal… Venezuela is committing to doing business with the United States of America as their principal partner — a wise choice, and a very good thing for the people of Venezuela, and the United States,” Trump wrote.
Announcement Follows Major US Operation in Caracas
The development comes just days after the United States carried out a large-scale strike in Caracas that resulted in the capture of Venezuela’s former President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. The two were flown out of the country as part of a joint operation involving US law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
Maduro and Flores are now facing trial in the Southern District of New York over charges related to alleged drug trafficking and narco-terrorism conspiracies.
Following their detention, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has taken charge as acting president, according to reports.
US Maintains Strong Influence Over Venezuela’s Interim Government
Addressing the situation, the White House confirmed that the Trump Administration remains in close coordination with Venezuela’s interim authorities. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the United States currently holds “maximum leverage” over Venezuela’s leadership and will continue to shape key policy decisions.
Earlier, Trump also revealed that 30 to 50 million barrels of sanctioned Venezuelan oil would be handed over to the US. While the oil will be sold at market value, Trump said the funds would be directly controlled to ensure they benefit both nations and support humanitarian needs in Venezuela.