智通财经网·2026-02-06 13:42Core Viewpoint - ExxonMobil and Chevron are expanding their production in OPEC member countries, supported by the U.S. government's foreign policy under President Trump, which is facilitating their negotiations in high-risk regions like Venezuela, Iraq, Libya, Algeria, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan [1][2]. Group 1: Expansion Opportunities - The U.S. oil executives perceive unprecedented international growth opportunities as host governments seek to gain favor with Trump and secure implicit U.S. security guarantees [2]. - ExxonMobil and Chevron are actively negotiating for investments in some of the world's largest oil fields, marking a significant step in Trump's pursuit of U.S. energy dominance [2][9]. - The U.S. government's support provides ExxonMobil and Chevron a competitive edge over European oil giants like Shell, Total, and BP in expanding their operations in the Middle East [1][9]. Group 2: Historical Context and Challenges - Historically, major oil companies faced nationalization and stringent contract terms in the Middle East, limiting new project opportunities [6][7]. - ExxonMobil has previously encountered asset nationalization in Venezuela and faced challenges in Russia due to geopolitical tensions [7]. Group 3: Current Negotiations and Strategies - Recent meetings between ExxonMobil, Chevron, and officials from Iraq, Libya, and Algeria have been accompanied by senior members of the Trump administration, indicating a strategic push for U.S. energy interests [8][11]. - Both companies are exploring opportunities in Iraq, with ExxonMobil signing a research agreement for the Majnoon oil field and Chevron showing interest in the Nasiriyah project [11][12]. - The U.S. oil giants are also looking to re-enter Libya, which is offering exploration blocks estimated to contain 10 billion barrels of resources as part of a plan to increase production by 40% by 2030 [12]. Group 4: Global Expansion and Investments - Since Trump's administration began, ExxonMobil has expanded into Angola, Greece, Egypt, and Trinidad and Tobago, while Chevron is negotiating to extend its Tengiz oil field license in Kazakhstan and has increased its exploration budget by 50% [13][14]. - The companies are strategically selecting opportunities based on geological conditions and acceptable geopolitical risks, allowing them to negotiate favorable terms [14][15].