U.S. Lawmaker Probes Vitol, Trafigura Over Venezuela Oil Deals Post-Maduro Capture

Rep. Robert Garcia, top Democrat on a House investigative panel, demanded communications from Vitol and Trafigura with the Trump administration regarding Venezuelan oil deals following the U.S. capture of President Nicolas Maduro in January 2026. The firms received the first U.S. licenses to export Venezuelan crude under the new U.S.-managed regime. Garcia’s Jan 29 letter seeks clarity on revenue flows, contractual agreements, and the traders’ role in executing U.S. policy. A dozen Democrats previously warned 21 firms—including both traders—that Venezuelan investments carry legal and financial risk after their Jan 9 White House meeting. Vitol and Trafigura have not responded to requests for comment. The probe occurs as Republicans face a tight battle to retain House control in November 2026 midterms.