Venezuela Seeks Clarity on Exxon's Caribbean Oil Ambitions

Amid growing tensions, Venezuela is pressing Trinidad and Tobago for details regarding Exxon Mobil’s forthcoming ultra-deepwater explorations in the Caribbean. According to sources and documents reviewed by Reuters, Venezuela's Vice President and oil minister, Delcy Rodriguez, has sought specific data on Exxon’s activities due to potential territorial overlaps.

The evolving diplomatic rift took another turn when Venezuela's National Assembly declared Trinidad’s Prime Minister persona non grata. In a significant diplomatic backlash, Venezuela suspended an energy agreement with Trinidad and highlighted concerns over what it perceives as a pro-U.S. stance by the Caribbean nation.

Despite the strain, Trinidad conveyed its intention to inform Venezuela of Exxon’s upcoming seismic surveys. However, confidentiality agreements inhibit disclosure of exhaustive details about Exxon’s operations, as per Trinidadian government memos. The bilateral relationship, once amicable, faces newfound challenges under Trinidad's new leadership.