US independents eye PDVSA deals to revive Venezuela’s oil output

Independent U.S. oil producers are expected to sign production contracts with Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA at a Houston ceremony, marking a step in Washington’s push to boost Venezuela’s oil output. The talks, attended by Venezuela’s oil officials, could add up to about 300,000 barrels per day of new production next year, though broader growth hinges on a clearer political framework, dispute resolution, and infrastructure restoration after earthquakes. The White House is not formally involved in the signing, but the moves reflect ongoing U.S. pressure to secure oil revenues for rebuilding efforts.