Trump says US companies will invest billions in Venezuelan oil production. Experts aren’t so sure

The Guardian - World News Economic ImpactNews ReportEN 4 min read 100% complete by Callum Jones in New YorkJanuary 6, 2026 at 07:19 PM

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Donald Trump predicts that US oil companies will invest billions in Venezuela to revitalize its oil production within 18 months after Nicolás Maduro's removal. However, industry experts are skeptical, citing the need for US government guarantees to offset the high risks and costs associated with rebuilding Venezuela's damaged oil infrastructure. Major US oil companies like ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron have not confirmed any investment plans. Analysts estimate it could take at least three years to significantly increase production, with initial efforts focused on securing contracts and reconstruction before any meaningful output increase. Experts suggest that while interest in Venezuelan oil exists, the appetite for heavy investment remains low due to the country's uncertain future.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

Chevron is the only US oil major still operating in Venezuela

factual — null100% confidence

Multinationals' interest in Venezuelan oil does not necessarily correspond with their appetite to invest heavily.

quote — Dan Pickering90% confidence

Venezuela is reputedly home to the world’s largest crude oil reserves.

factual — null90% confidence

It’s probably going to take three years for any kind of production bounce.

prediction — Dan Pickering90% confidence

US companies will invest billions in Venezuelan oil production after Maduro's rendition.

prediction — Donald Trump80% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

NBC News 40% ExxonMobil 60% Chevron 60% ConocoPhillips ×270% Nicolás Maduro 70% United States ×580% Venezuela ×490% Donald Trump ×690%

Keywords

venezuelan oil production 90% us investment 80% oil industry 70% donald trump 70% infrastructure 60% government guarantees 60% oil reserves 50% risk assessment 50% energy firms 50% production bounce 40%