Trump Administration Had No Consultations With Major U.S. Oil Firms on Venezuela, Executives Say

The Trump administration did not consult with Exxon Mobil ($XOM), ConocoPhillips ($COP), or Chevron ($CVX) before or after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, according to four oil industry executives familiar with the matter.

• Four oil industry executives said none of the three companies had conversations with the White House about operating or investing in Venezuela.
• The executives stated the companies had no prior knowledge of the U.S. operation to capture Maduro.
• The accounts contradict President Donald Trump’s statement that he spoke with U.S. oil companies “before and after” Maduro’s capture.
• Sources requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation.
• The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Relevant Companies

• Exxon Mobil ($XOM) – Potential involvement in Venezuelan upstream oil development or production contracts.
• ConocoPhillips ($COP) – Possible exposure to future Venezuelan energy investment or asset negotiations.
• Chevron ($CVX) – Existing and potential operations in Venezuela subject to U.S. policy and sanctions decisions.

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.

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