Chevron Expansion in Venezuela Extends U.S. Influence Over Oil Riches NYT > Top Stories By: Rebecca F. Elliott 2 September 2026 at 13:36 The U.S. energy giant, which stayed in the country after other Western companies left, will invest $7 billion in the country to more than double its production there. © Maryorin Mendez/Agence France-Presse — Getty ImagesOil infrastructure in Cabimas, Venezuela. Chevron’s expansion is separate from President Trump’s deal for control of oil reserves in the country.