North Miami-Dade News

Western Hemisphere Subcommittee Chairwoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) held a hearing today to criticize American and European oil companies for continuing business with the Maduro regime in Venezuela, despite its alleged attempt to steal the 2024 presidential election.

“In Venezuela, a cruel contradiction has unfolded. Maduro has intensified his brutality through jail and death since July 28th,” said Chairwoman Salazar. “In the meantime, unfortunately, American and European oil companies led by Chevron, Repsol, Eni, and Maurel et Prom have now increased their pumping and their profits—directly fueling the tyrannical machinery of oppression. Shame on them!”

Salazar highlighted the human rights situation in Venezuela, where President Nicolas Maduro has reportedly intensified repression against opposition members and civilians following the disputed election. She criticized the Biden-Harris Administration’s policy that allows American oil companies to operate in Venezuela without objections. The companies mentioned include Chevron, Repsol, Eni, and Maurel et Prom.

Salazar questioned Kevin Sullivan from the State Department about renewing Chevron’s license to operate in Venezuela shortly after Maduro lost the election on July 28, 2024. Sullivan stated that such decisions are made by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Salazar countered that OFAC acts under State Department direction and argued that allowing these operations financially supports Maduro's regime.

Salazar also addressed Sullivan regarding other companies seeking licenses to operate in Venezuela. She suggested that permitting these operations without U.S. government repercussions sends a weak message internationally about Maduro's actions being acceptable. Sullivan noted that pausing these licenses is always a policy option under review.

Further questioning covered why the Biden-Harris Administration has not recognized Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia as Venezuela's legitimate president-elect. Sullivan affirmed Gonzalez's victory but stated that official recognition depends on releasing election results showing this outcome.

The hearing concluded with discussions on potential migratory impacts if Maduro remains in power. Salazar cited concerns about increased migration from Venezuela affecting neighboring South American countries and exacerbating issues at the U.S.-Mexico border. Officials from USAID and the State Department indicated ongoing efforts to support South American nations receiving migrants but provided no detailed responses.

Chairwoman Salazar emphasized bipartisan support for Venezuelan opposition as crucial at this time.

To watch the full hearing, click here.