Venezuela Reportedly Weighs Exit From OPEC Amid US Talks

Venezuela is reportedly examining the possibility of withdrawing from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), according to people familiar with the matter.

The prospect of an exit has been raised in discussions with United States officials, though the deliberations remain at an exploratory stage and no final decision has been reached, the sources said.

Caracas has been an OPEC member since 1960 and is one of the cartel's founding nations. A departure would mark a significant shift in the country's energy diplomacy, potentially reshaping its relations with both the bloc and Washington.

The report could not be independently verified at the time of publication.

Venezuela's oil sector has faced years of sanctions, underinvestment, and production decline, even as the country sits atop some of the world's largest proven crude reserves. Any move to leave OPEC would likely carry implications for global oil markets and for the country's already strained economy.

Observers note that the talks with US officials suggest a broader recalibration of Venezuela's international energy posture, though the lack of a final decision leaves room for several possible outcomes.