An end to the regime of President Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela could have significant implications for the U.S. oil and gas industry in the years ahead.
For now, President Donald Trump’s partial blockade of the country’s oil exports has few political or economic risks for the United States. But that could change, depending on conditions on the ground and at sea.
The most obvious consequence of U.S. involvement would be soaring gasoline prices that threaten the economy and squeeze voters’ wallets, if not for the global oil glut that has been pushing down prices for crude. And oil market observers figure the oil that Venezuela pumps into the world every day — less than 1 million barrels — will barely be missed.
The seizure of stateless and sanctioned vessels won’t likely rile American allies or test international law. And other legitimate vessels are already shying away from Venezuelan ports.
