Story perspectives

Venezuelan Acting President Seeks Oil Shift to India

5/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez of Venezuela will travel to India next week to discuss oil sales.
Venezuela’s shipments to India have risen to about 417,000 bpd, while Saudi deliveries fell to 340,000 bpd, prompting U.S. officials to say the visit aims to shift India toward Venezuelan oil.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the trip, scheduled for May 23-26, 2026, and noted that only Reliance’s Jamnagar refinery can process the ultra-heavy Venezuelan crude.

History

Historical Context

In 1973 the OPEC-led oil embargo cut Middle-East exports to the West by 60–70%, forcing buyers to look for other sources. The crisis created a lasting push to diversify supply beyond the Gulf. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez’s May 2026 visit seeks to raise Venezuelan crude shipments to India, reviving that diversification effort.

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Story summary

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez of Venezuela will travel to India next week to discuss oil sales.
Venezuela’s shipments to India have risen to about 417,000 bpd, while Saudi deliveries fell to 340,000 bpd, prompting U.S. officials to say the visit aims to shift India toward Venezuelan oil.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the trip, scheduled for May 23-26, 2026, and noted that only Reliance’s Jamnagar refinery can process the ultra-heavy Venezuelan crude.

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