Trump claims the US and Venezuela together hold 60% of the world’s oil and gas reserves, and hints at strengthening influence over Venezuela

(1) Former US President Donald Trump stated that the United States currently possesses 60% of the world's oil and natural gas reserves and considers Venezuela's resources as part of America's energy potential. He posted an image on the social platform "Truth Social" depicting Venezuela as the 51st state of the US, further suggesting the possibility of strengthening influence over the country.(2) While speaking to supporters in Las Vegas, Trump claimed that the US owns more gasoline, oil, and natural gas than any other nation in the world. With the addition of Venezuela, he said, the total accounts for 60% of global oil and gas resources.(3) According to a Financial Times report at the end of July, it is estimated that the US will profit more than $1.3 billion from the sale of Venezuelan oil in 2026, highlighting the US's tangible economic interests in the country's energy resources.