US Energy Secretary seeks to balance Chinese influence in Venezuela

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright has stated that a balance can be struck between the roles of the US and China to ensure continued trade in Venezuela. However, he emphasized that Washington will not allow Beijing to exert a level of control that would effectively dominate the Latin American nation.

In an interview with Fox Business, Wright noted that Chevron is poised to rapidly expand its operations in Venezuela. He also indicated that other industry giants, including ConocoPhillips and Exxon Mobil, are seeking to play constructive roles in the country’s energy sector.

“I think China will have a long-term involvement in Venezuela,” Wright said. “That is acceptable as long as America remains the dominant power there, the rule of law is established, and the US maintains control over the flow of oil.”

When asked whether a stable balance could be achieved with Beijing, the Secretary responded, “I think it can.” He explained that while trade with China is possible, it must occur within a framework where the US is the primary partner. He further clarified that Washington would not permit Venezuela to become a “vassal state” of China.

Wright also revealed that he has been in communication with executives from leading US oil companies since the detention of Nicolas Maduro on Saturday. He mentioned that several companies expressed frustration after being excluded from an industry meeting held at the White House on Friday, though he declined to name the specific firms involved.