Global oil flows may soon realign as Washington prepares to enable India’s purchase of Venezuelan crude within a stringent U.S.-managed framework. A senior White House figure confirmed this to IANS, hinting at restored access for historic buyers like India amid its energy boom.
The official’s ‘Yes’ came with a caveat: the setup is evolving. Energy Secretary Christopher Wright provided depth on Fox Business, advocating sales to most countries through U.S. channels, with revenues safeguarded for Venezuelans, not corrupt elements.
Demand persists for the heavy oil, with U.S. plants and others optimized for it. Wright positioned it as Trump policy evolution—partner or perish—enforced via seizures and potential naval action against rogue shipments.
From a New York event, plans emerged to sell off 30-50 million stored barrels, followed by revived output supported by American diluents, parts, and firm negotiations.
Pre-sanctions, India guzzled Venezuelan grades in tailored refineries; now, with explosive consumption and import reliance, this revives options. Venezuela’s unmatched reserves meet India’s ascent perfectly. The U.S. gambit seeks market balance, humanitarian impact, and leverage—a multifaceted play in energy geopolitics.