Donald Trump was seen sporting a badge with his likeness during a meeting with oil industry leaders at the White House. The US president urged executives to quickly return to Venezuela in order to attract $100 billion in investments to maximize the country’s vast oil reserves. Following the recent apprehension of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Trump positioned the situation as a fresh economic opening for the US, indicating American control over the sales of previously sanctioned Venezuelan oil.
At the gathering, Trump, aged 79, donned his customary American flag pin alongside another badge featuring a caricature of himself. When asked about the new pin, Trump humorously referred to it as a ‘Happy Trump,’ highlighting his perpetual drive to improve the country. He assured the executives of their safety if they decide to invest in Venezuela, emphasizing direct dealings with the US and avoiding engagement with Venezuela itself.
Expressing his plans, Trump disclosed that major US oil companies would be investing over $100 billion of their own funds, emphasizing the need for government protection rather than financial support. The president welcomed oil executives to the White House following the US forces’ seizure of a fifth tanker linked to Venezuelan oil earlier that day. This move underscored the US government’s commitment to overseeing all aspects of Venezuelan oil production and exportation.
In preparation for the meeting, Trump posted on Truth Social, mentioning the anticipated discussion on Venezuelan oil and the country’s long-term security, people, and relationship with the US. He underscored the importance of reducing oil prices for Americans and curbing drug and criminal influx into the country. The White House extended invitations to executives from 17 companies, including Chevron, ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, Halliburton, Valero, Marathon, Shell, Trafigura, Eni, and Repsol, with the aim of revising investment frameworks and laws to make Venezuela a more attractive investment destination.