UPDATE: Venezuela has just confirmed it has met its ambitious oil production target of 1.2 million barrels per day (BPD) for 2023, despite ongoing aggressive actions from the United States. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez announced this significant milestone on Telegram, calling it a crucial victory for the nation and its oil workers.
The announcement comes as US forces seized multiple oil tankers linked to Caracas, intensifying a long-standing conflict over Venezuela’s oil resources. Most recently, the Panama-flagged tanker Centuries was captured on December 17, following the seizure of the tanker Skipper on December 10. The US claims these actions are necessary to combat illicit oil activities and narco-trafficking, labeling the Maduro government as a “foreign terrorist organization.”
Rodriguez hailed the production achievement as “the best Christmas gift” for Venezuelans, emphasizing the resilience of state oil company PDVSA employees who have faced what she termed “harassment, hostility, and imperialist illegality.” She vowed that “nothing and no one will stop us,” reiterating support for President Nicolas Maduro.
This declaration of success comes amid escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela. The US government has implemented a “total and complete blockade” of sanctioned oil tankers, leading to what Venezuela describes as “international piracy.” The Venezuelan administration argues that these US actions are designed to undermine its sovereignty and control over oil resources.
As the situation evolves, the implications for global oil markets and Venezuela’s economy could be profound. Observers are watching closely for a response from US officials as tensions escalate.
The Venezuelan government is now preparing to ramp up production further, with ambitious goals set for 2026, aiming for even higher output levels. The outcome of this ongoing confrontation will be critical, not just for Venezuela, but for global energy dynamics as well.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
