Trump Declares National Emergency to Protect Venezuelan Oil Proceeds Under U.S. Custody

Washington, D.C. — A new White House executive order is blocking courts and creditors from seizing certain Venezuela-related oil revenues held in U.S. Treasury accounts, a move the administration says is meant to support U.S. foreign policy goals and stability efforts in Venezuela.

President Donald Trump signed the order Friday, declaring a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act, arguing that legal attachments against the funds would harm U.S. national security and foreign policy.

The order defines Foreign Government Deposit Funds as money paid to or held by the U.S. government in designated Treasury accounts on behalf of Venezuela or its agencies, including the Central Bank of Venezuela and Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A., derived from sales of natural resources or diluents.

Under the directive, any attachment, judgment, lien, garnishment, or similar judicial process targeting the funds is prohibited and null and void unless specifically licensed or authorized. It also restricts transfers or other dealings in the funds except as allowed by future regulations or licenses.

The Treasury secretary is instructed to hold the funds in a custodial capacity and to follow State Department directions on disbursements, while the Justice Department is directed to assert sovereign immunity protections in relevant proceedings.

What parents should know: This action does not change day-to-day school operations, but it could matter indirectly if it affects energy markets or migration policy debates. For families trying to budget, it’s a reminder to watch for updates on U.S. Venezuela policy that could influence prices or regional stability discussions.

This article was produced by an education and parenting journalist with the assistance of AI. This is not legal advice. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.