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Trump's Venezuela Focus: Drugs or Oil Interests?

12/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump says his focus on Venezuela stems mainly from drug trafficking.
Some observers suggest oil interests may also influence policy.
The United States remains the largest oil producer, but most refineries are configured for heavy crude not domestically produced.
The United States imports over 6,000 barrels of heavy oil daily, mainly from Canada, while Venezuela's heavy-oil reserves could serve as an alternative.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump says his focus on Venezuela stems mainly from drug trafficking.
Some observers suggest oil interests may also influence policy.
The United States remains the largest oil producer, but most refineries are configured for heavy crude not domestically produced.
The United States imports over 6,000 barrels of heavy oil daily, mainly from Canada, while Venezuela's heavy-oil reserves could serve as an alternative.