U.S. Democrats demand transparency over $13 billion in Venezuelan oil funds

Democratic lawmakers in the United States are demanding transparency regarding billions of dollars in revenue from Venezuelan crude oil sales currently held in U.S.-controlled accounts. Senators Elizabeth Warren, Ron Wyden, and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with several Representatives, have sent communications to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Secretary of State Marco Rubio questioning the management of these funds.

Following a military intervention earlier this year that resulted in the capture and imprisonment of Nicolás Maduro in New York, Washington assumed control over the sale of Venezuelan petroleum abroad. President Donald Trump has stated that more than $13 billion has accumulated in these accounts, which are held at Citibank and audited by KPMG. However, legislators argue that the administration has failed to provide fundamental information regarding the total amount held or the specific mechanisms in place to prevent corruption and money laundering.

Additionally, lawmakers are seeking clarification on disbursements made to the interim government of Delcy Rodríguez. Reports indicate that at least $500 million has already been transferred to her administration through mediation by Qatar. Lawmakers are also investigating whether the administration exerted pressure on foreign governments to protect Alejandro Betancourt, a Venezuelan businessman identified as a partner in these oil agreements.