US Says It Returned More Than $12 Billion in Venezuelan Oil Proceeds

The Trump administration says the United States has returned more than $12 billion, nearly 99% of revenue from Venezuelan oil sales since it ousted President Nicolás Maduro in January. A State Department report, citing accounting firm KPMG, puts proceeds from crude sales and smaller amounts of gold, minerals and fertiliser at $12.26 billion. Under an energy deal with Venezuela’s interim authorities, crude is sold on the open market and proceeds enter a US-managed account. Venezuelan officials seek approval to use the funds for infrastructure and humanitarian needs. The report says <b>$168.6 million remained in escrow</b> on September 30, the end of the 2026 budget year.