US defends Venezuela oil deal as China demands safeguards

On September 1, 2026, the United States defended its recent oil agreement with Venezuela, with officials saying it is part of a path toward democracy, as Chevron prepares to expand operations. The White House detailed the deal, and Washington also defended its partnership with businessman Alejandro Betancourt in Venezuela. Meanwhile, China's Foreign Ministry demanded that its legitimate rights and interests in Venezuela be safeguarded, following reported US plans for Venezuelan oilfields. A progressive Florida Democrat criticized the deal, claiming President Trump was promoting 'communism'.