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    Continental Resources Signs MOU for Venezuelan Oil Block Development

    Section editor: ·Moderate4 articles covering this·3 news sources·Updated 2 hours ago·World
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    Infographic showing the 30 billion barrels of oil at Ayacucho 2 Block and its potential impact on global energy markets.

    What happened

    On September 16, 2026, Continental Resources signed a memorandum of understanding with PDVSA to develop the Ayacucho 2 Block in Venezuela.

    The Context

    • Geopolitical Shift: The deal follows the U.S. military capture of Nicolás Maduro, opening the door for American investments in Venezuela's oil industry.
    • Resource Potential: The Ayacucho 2 Block is estimated to hold 30 billion barrels of oil, presenting significant opportunities for energy companies.
    • Market Dynamics: This agreement aligns with Chevron's expansion plans and reflects a broader trend of U.S. companies increasing their presence in Venezuela.

    The Number

    30 billion barrels

    — This is the estimated resource in place at the Ayacucho 2 Block, highlighting the potential for substantial oil production and its implications for global energy supply.

    Takeaway

    As negotiations for a long-term production-sharing agreement progress, expect increased U.S. involvement in Venezuela's oil sector, which could reshape energy markets.

    4 Articles
    The Hill

    Harold Hamm’s oil company announces Venezuela deal

    Harold Hamm's Continental Resources has announced a significant deal to drill for oil in Venezuela, marking a notable expansion into the South American country's energy sector. This agreement comes amid a backdrop of shifting U.S.-Venezuela relations...

    The New York Times

    Trump Ally Harold Hamm Strikes Venezuela Oil Deal

    Harold Hamm's company, Continental Resources, has signed a preliminary deal with Venezuela's state-owned oil company to develop and produce oil, marking a significant step in U.S.-Venezuelan energy relations. This agreement comes amid the Trump admin...

    The Wall Street Journal

    Harold Hamm’s Continental Resources Signs Preliminary Oil Deal in Venezuela

    Harold Hamm's Continental Resources has signed a preliminary oil deal to explore one of Venezuela's undeveloped oil fields, marking a significant move in the U.S. oil sector's engagement with the South American country. This agreement comes amid a ba...

    11 hours ago
    Read Full Article
    The Wall Street Journal

    Harold Hamm’s Continental Resources Signs Preliminary Oil Deal in Venezuela

    Harold Hamm's Continental Resources has signed a preliminary oil deal with Venezuela's state-owned oil company to explore one of the country's undeveloped oil fields, marking a significant step in U.S.-Venezuelan energy relations. This agreement alig...

    11 hours ago
    Read Full Article