Core Insights - The article highlights the failure of Trump's strategy to leverage Venezuela's oil resources against China, as Chinese buyers rejected high-priced offers for Venezuelan oil [1][3][8] Group 1: Trump's Strategy and Venezuela's Oil - Trump's administration aimed to use naval blockades to force China into purchasing Venezuelan oil at inflated prices, believing that this would weaken the Maduro government [3][5] - The plan involved increasing pressure on Venezuela's economy by disrupting oil shipments, as the country heavily relies on oil exports for revenue [5][9] - Despite initial expectations, the strategy did not yield the desired results, as China maintained a rational approach and refused to accept high prices for Venezuelan oil [8][9] Group 2: Impact of U.S. Sanctions and Blockades - U.S. sanctions have led to rising transportation costs for Venezuelan oil, with discounts on Merey crude oil decreasing from $15 to $13 per barrel, yet Chinese buyers still rejected these prices [6][9] - The blockade initiated by the U.S. in late 2025 resulted in increased costs and logistical challenges, but did not significantly disrupt China's oil supply or trade relations with Venezuela [9][10] - The U.S. military actions, including a raid that captured Maduro, were intended to further control Venezuelan oil resources, but faced backlash and did not achieve the intended economic leverage [10][11] Group 3: China's Response and Strategic Position - China, as the largest oil importer, demonstrated strategic resilience by diversifying its oil supply sources and maintaining substantial reserves, thus avoiding dependence on Venezuelan oil [8][11] - Despite a decrease in imports from Venezuela over the past decade, China remains a crucial trading partner, accounting for 80% of Venezuela's oil exports [11] - The geopolitical tensions have prompted China to reassess its energy dependencies in Latin America, while continuing to advocate for mutually beneficial cooperation [11]
美媒:特朗普的算盘空,委内瑞拉的高价油,中国连一桶都不肯买
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-11 06:12