Venezuela's PDVSA ratifies Asdrubal Chavez as head of US units including Citgo - Reuters

Reuters
March 17, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Venezuela's state oil company installs Asdrubal Chavez to oversee U.S. operations including Citgo Petroleum.

How This Affects You

Citgo's appointment of a figure tied to the Maduro regime may complicate U.S. sanctions enforcement and influence gas prices at Citgo-branded stations across America.

AI Summary

Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA has ratified Asdrubal Chavez as head of its U.S. operations, a position that includes oversight of Citgo Petroleum, the Venezuelan-owned refiner with significant American assets. Chavez's appointment consolidates control over one of Venezuela's most valuable remaining international holdings at a time when the country faces ongoing economic crisis and international sanctions. Citgo operates refineries and distribution networks across the United States and represents a critical source of hard currency for the Maduro government. The move signals Venezuela's intent to maintain operational control of its U.S. assets despite years of political pressure and legal challenges from the Trump administration and opposition figures who claim the Maduro regime lacks legitimacy.

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