Gulf Coast refineries now processing half of Venezuela's crude, US official confirms

A senior US official revealed on Wednesday that

A senior US official revealed on Wednesday that American refineries along the Gulf Coast are now importing approximately 500,000 barrels of Venezuelan crude each day, which represents half of Venezuela's total daily production of 1.25 million barrels. The statement underscores the deepening energy ties between the two nations despite ongoing political tensions.

The disclosure came during a congressional hearing where the official, speaking on condition of anonymity, detailed the scale of the energy flow. This figure marks a significant increase from previous years, when US sanctions had largely halted Venezuelan oil exports to American shores, pushing Caracas to rely on other markets.

Industry analysts note that the surge in imports reflects a pragmatic shift in US policy, which has granted temporary waivers to several major refineries. These facilities, particularly along the Texas and Louisiana coasts, are equipped to process the heavy, sour crude that Venezuela produces, making it a cost-effective alternative to similar grades from other regions.

For Venezuela, the steady shipments provide a vital

For Venezuela, the steady shipments provide a vital source of hard currency, easing the economic strain on its state-run oil company, PDVSA. The official emphasized that the arrangements are strictly monitored to ensure compliance with existing sanctions, with the US retaining the right to tighten or revoke licenses if political conditions worsen.

However, the growing reliance on Venezuelan oil has sparked debate among lawmakers, with some questioning whether it undermines US efforts to pressure the Maduro government. Others argue that the imports bolster regional energy security and help stabilize global crude prices, especially as OPEC+ maintains production cuts.

The official declined to speculate on future policy directions but noted that the current flow is expected to continue in the near term, barring major geopolitical shifts. The revelation adds a new layer of complexity to US-Venezuela relations, which have been marked by years of hostility, yet now involve a level of commercial interdependence unseen in recent memory.