Trump Threatens to Block ExxonMobil Investment in Venezuela

Background on Trump-ExxonMobil-Venezuela Dynamics

US President Donald Trump is considering preventing ExxonMobil from investing in Venezuela following comments from the company's CEO, Darren Woods, who described Venezuela as "uninvestable" during a recent White House meeting ¹

. This reaction from Trump comes after he had been actively encouraging major oil companies to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's oil industry ¹

Source 1

https://finance.detik.com/energi/d-8303706/trump-cegah-exxon-investasi-di-venezuela-ada-apa

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Key Statements and Reactions

During the meeting held on January 9, 2026, Darren Woods told Trump that Venezuela needs to change its laws before it can become an attractive investment opportunity. Trump's response was immediate and critical, stating on Air Force One on January 11, 2026, that he disliked ExxonMobil's response and might prevent them from getting involved ¹

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Implications for Venezuela's Oil Sector

This development creates significant uncertainty for potential investors in Venezuela's oil sector. Trump's previous encouragement had raised hopes for substantial investment in the country's beleaguered oil industry. The mixed signals from both the US administration and major oil companies like ExxonMobil complicate Venezuela's efforts to attract much-needed foreign investment.

Market and Investor Reactions

The news has immediate implications for both ExxonMobil and Venezuela. For ExxonMobil, Trump's threat represents potential lost opportunity in a major oil-producing country. For Venezuela, it signifies continued uncertainty in their efforts to revitalize their oil industry, which is crucial for their economic recovery.