US, Venezuela negotiate deal for American access to Venezuelan oilfields

The Trump administration is negotiating a deal with Venezuela to secure long-term access to Venezuelan crude oil reserves, aiming to lower US crude import costs. The agreement, potentially signed soon, would allow American companies to develop specific Venezuelan oilfields, guaranteeing supply for the US. A source stated, "This is real and being discussed at the highest levels of the US and Venezuelan governments." The deal may involve a "lease" model for 17 fields, including those in the Orinoco Belt and Lake Maracaibo. This initiative follows the removal of former President Nicolas Maduro and seeks to stabilize crude flow for US refineries and promote American investment in Venezuela's energy sector. Venezuela is also reportedly considering leaving OPEC as it strengthens ties with the US.