In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the complexities of international business dealings with Venezuela, particularly in light of U.S. sanctions. A representative highlighted the challenges faced by companies seeking to engage with Venezuela, noting that many international firms are hesitant to proceed without explicit approval from the U.S. government due to fears of repercussions.

The representative emphasized the importance of granting licenses to non-American companies, such as Shell, ONGC Videsh from India, and Kerui Petroleum from China, arguing that these licenses could impact the financial resources available to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The concern raised was that increased revenue for Maduro could lead to heightened repression against political opponents and civil society within Venezuela.

The discussion also touched on the role of major U.S. companies, including Chevron, in this context. The representative questioned how many licenses had been granted by these companies, suggesting that the flow of money directly correlates with the level of repression in Venezuela. The chairwoman responded by stating that while she could not comment on specific license applications, the revenue generated for Maduro is a significant factor in the decision-making process regarding these licenses.

This dialogue underscores the delicate balance the U.S. government must maintain between facilitating international business and addressing human rights concerns in Venezuela. The implications of these discussions could influence future policy decisions and the international community's approach to engaging with the Venezuelan government.