(DDM) – The United States has imposed stringent conditions on Venezuela’s oil sector, linking increased production and exports to Caracas reducing its ties with China and Russia.
Washington wants Venezuela to prioritize oil sales to the U.S., effectively creating an exclusive energy partnership that sidelines traditional buyers.
Sources familiar with White House communications said Caracas must sever strategic relationships with Beijing, Moscow, Tehran, and Havana before it can expand production or exports.
The conditions reportedly require U.S. companies to be given priority in oil production and crude sales.
Beijing condemned the demands, calling Washington’s approach “typical bullying” and a violation of Venezuelan sovereignty and international law.
Chinese officials emphasized that Venezuela should maintain legitimate trade agreements without interference from external powers.
Alongside these demands, the U.S. government announced plans to control Venezuelan oil sales “indefinitely,” channeling proceeds into U.S.-managed accounts to support American refiners.
Recent reports indicate that the U.S. intends to purchase up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude initially, while selectively easing sanctions to facilitate the deal.
Experts say this move reflects broader geopolitical goals: securing energy supplies and countering China and Russia’s influence in Latin America.
The U.S. strategy has sparked sharp criticism internationally, with analysts arguing it pressures Venezuela to realign its foreign economic policies to U.S. interests.
Venezuela’s oil industry, once capable of over 3 million barrels per day, has declined due to mismanagement, sanctions, and reduced foreign investment, shifting exports toward China and other non-U.S. markets.
Given Venezuela’s heavy crude reserves, which match U.S. refinery specifications, controlling exports is commercially strategic and could impact global oil markets.
Observers note that failure to comply with U.S. demands could limit Venezuela’s access to lucrative markets and investment.
China has warned that any attempt to monopolize Venezuelan oil sales could escalate tensions in international relations.
Analysts also predict long-term implications for global trade, as other nations may see this as precedent-setting for U.S. intervention in sovereign economic policies.
U.S. officials maintain that the policy is mutually beneficial, securing American energy needs while providing Venezuela with access to previously restricted markets.
The situation continues to evolve, with diplomatic negotiations ongoing and significant economic and political stakes on the line.
