Venezuela–U.S. Oil Export Deal Shifts Crude Trade Flows

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new agreement allowing exports of up to $2 billion in Venezuelan crude to the United States, a move that could redirect barrels away from China and ease pressure on Venezuela’s struggling oil sector. The deal may influence benchmarks such as Oil – US Crude and Oil – Brent Crude, as additional Venezuelan supply into the U.S. could alter regional trade flows, refinery feedstock choices, and differentials between heavy and light crude grades. While details on volumes and timing remain limited, the arrangement signals a thaw in U.S.-Venezuela energy relations and introduces a new variable for crude market participants already focused on OPEC+ policy and global demand risks.

Over the past month, prices for Oil – US Crude have slipped about 0.95%, while Oil – Brent Crude is down roughly 1.25%, reflecting lingering concerns over demand and ample supply despite geopolitical headlines. Both contracts currently show a short-term technical stance of Hold for U.S. crude and Hold for Brent, indicating a lack of strong directional conviction among technical traders. In contrast, Natural Gas has fallen sharply by about 23.29% over the last month, with a 1-day technical rating of Sell, underscoring persistent bearish sentiment amid robust inventories and seasonality. Investors can explore more updates, prices, and analysis across global markets at Commodities.