WASHINGTON, D.C. March 30, 2026 – In a major step toward economic recovery, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has highlighted that Venezuela is now selling its oil on the global market at full international prices for the first time in decades, with revenues returning directly to the country and being used for the benefit of its people.
“For the first time in decades, Venezuela is now selling their oil in the global market at full market price. The money is coming back to Venezuela and being spent for the benefit of the Venezuelan people,” Rubio stated during a recent interview. The Department of State shared the video clip on X (formerly Twitter) yesterday, emphasizing the policy shift.
The announcement follows the U.S.-led operation in January 2026 that removed longtime leader Nicolás Maduro, who was subsequently captured and is now facing trial in the United States. Delcy Rodríguez, formerly Maduro’s vice president, is serving as interim president during the transition. Under a U.S.-overseen framework, oil sales are now conducted transparently at market rates—ending years of discounted exports mainly to allies like China—while revenues are monitored to prevent corruption and ensure they support essential public services.
According to Rubio, the funds are already being allocated to critical areas, including the purchase of medical goods and the payment of salaries for teachers, police officers, civil servants, sanitation workers, and other public employees.
This development is part of broader Trump administration efforts to stabilize Venezuela’s economy and facilitate a democratic transition after years of sanctions, hyperinflation, and mass emigration. Officials describe the revenue oversight as a temporary measure to rebuild institutions and improve living conditions for ordinary Venezuelans.
However, reactions among Venezuelans on social media have been mixed. While some welcome the potential for economic improvement, many express skepticism, arguing that everyday hardships persist. Replies to the State Department post noted low salaries (often under $2 per month for many workers and pensioners), ongoing shortages of medicine and basic services, and the continued presence of political prisoners. Opposition supporters continue to call for the return of María Corina Machado, widely seen as the legitimate winner of the disputed 2024 election, and demand full democratic elections.
The U.S. maintains that these oil revenues mark an important early milestone in Venezuela’s recovery, with further progress expected as the interim government and international partners work toward free and fair elections.
Life News Agency will continue monitoring developments in Venezuela as the situation evolves.
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