Trump's Venezuelan Oil Deal Raises $100B Question

President Donald Trump's plan to give the U.S. a stake in 17 Venezuelan oil fields holding an estimated 65 billion barrels has been unveiled, promising $100 billion in investment. However, it remains unclear if this deal will lower gas prices and replenish crude reserves during Trump's presidency.

The White House hasn't explained where the expected $100 billion investment is supposed to come from, with private operator North American Blue Energy Partners unlikely to cover that amount on its own.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright is set to visit Caracas as officials showcase separate agreements, including previously signed contracts and memorandums of understanding. These deals are intended to demonstrate progress in Venezuela and deliver a political and market win as the war in Iran drags on.

Major U.S. producers remain cautious about committing capital due to unresolved legacy claims and deep investor anxiety. Chevron Corp., the only U.S. oil major operating in Venezuela, is negotiating to add two heavy-oil fields to its existing operations there.