Coffee and a Mike Anas Alhajji #1293
Jan 17, 2026
Dr. Anas Alhajji, an expert in energy markets and geopolitics, dives deep into the intricate web of global oil dynamics. He discusses Venezuela's oil situation, revealing that U.S. actions are more about financial control than just reclaiming crude. Anas also covers OPEC's origins, the significance of the petrodollar, and the impact of regime changes, particularly in Iran. He shares insights on China's oil strategies and explores how Trump's unpredictability affects market stability. Get ready for an engaging exploration of energy's future!
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Lost Rockefeller Production Records
- Anas found thousands of small production books in a sealed Rockefeller-era building that recorded daily oil well outputs.
- He tried to save them but the Department of Energy said it lacked budget to archive the records.
Venezuela Moves Are About Money, Not Oil
- The U.S. focus on Venezuelan oil is about reclaiming owed money, not seizing crude for U.S. refiners.
- Canadian crude already supplies U.S. refineries and is technically and economically preferable to Venezuelan heavy crude.
Trump Echoes Iraq 'Oil-for-Food' Model
- Trump's plan mirrors the Iraq 'oil-for-food' escrow model: the U.S. would sell sanctioned Venezuelan oil and control revenue distribution.
- This structure signals control over payments rather than direct transfer of oil assets to U.S. refiners.