North Miami-Dade News

On September 20, 2024, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), chair of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, convened a hearing to condemn American and European oil companies for continuing business with the Maduro regime in Venezuela. This comes after allegations of election fraud in the Venezuelan presidential elections held on July 28, 2024.

"In Venezuela, a cruel contradiction has erupted. Maduro has intensified his brutality through imprisonment and death since July 28," said Congresswoman Salazar. "Meanwhile, regrettably, American and European oil companies led by Chevron, Repsol, Eni, and Maurel et Prom have increased their extraction and profits, directly fueling the tyrannical machinery of oppression. Shameful!"

Salazar opened her hearing by describing the current human rights situation in Venezuela. She highlighted that Nicolás Maduro has unleashed an unprecedented wave of repression against opposition and civilians following the disputed elections.

Salazar pointed out a key weakness in the Biden-Harris Administration's policy towards Maduro's regime: allowing American oil companies to operate in Venezuela without protest. Chevron, Repsol, Eni, and Maurel et Prom are identified as having significant licenses to operate there.

The congresswoman questioned Kevin Sullivan from the Biden-Harris State Department about why Chevron’s license was renewed 33 days after Maduro allegedly lost the election on July 28. Sullivan stated that this decision ultimately lies with the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the Treasury Department. Salazar countered that OFAC issues policies under State Department direction.

Salazar argued that allowing these companies to continue operations provides financial support needed by Maduro to maintain his repressive regime.

Further questioning addressed the issue of 50 other companies seeking licenses to operate in Venezuela. When Sullivan referred her back to OFAC again, Salazar argued that permitting these operations sends a weak message internationally about U.S. stance on Maduro’s actions.

Salazar also asked about suspending these licenses. Sullivan noted it remains a policy option but is still under review.

The congresswoman continued by addressing the refusal of Biden-Harris Administration to recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as Venezuela's legitimate president-elect. Sullivan affirmed González's victory but noted that official results from Maduro were still pending.

Salazar reminded that anything short of recognition would be seen as lack of support for opposition forces by Maduro’s regime.

Finally, Salazar questioned Enrique Roig and Greg Howell from State Department Human Rights division and USAID respectively about how this political weakness could impact migration flows. An estimated four million Venezuelans might leave if Maduro retains power, potentially straining resources in neighboring South American countries like Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador while exacerbating security issues at the U.S.-Mexico border.

The session concluded with Salazar stressing bipartisan support for Venezuelan opposition during this critical period.

To view the full hearing click here.