Former Oil Minister Arrested in Venezuela for Alleged US Collaboration

Venezuela's top prosecutor announced the arrest of former oil minister Pedro Tellechea, accusing him of working with the US to undermine the nation's crucial oil industry. The charges relate to his alleged delivery of PDVSA's control system to a US-controlled firm, violating national sovereignty.

In a significant development impacting Venezuela's oil industry, the nation's top prosecutor announced the arrest of former oil minister Pedro Tellechea. Tellechea is accused of collaborating with the US to undermine this cornerstone of Venezuela's economy.

The attorney general, Tarek William Saab, revealed the arrest on Instagram. Tellechea had taken on the role of oil minister in early 2023 amid a government reshuffle following corruption scandals. However, he was accused of handing over control of PDVSA's command system, seen as the 'brain' of the state-owned oil giant, to a US-linked company, consciously violating Venezuela's sovereignty.

This arrest comes amid broader tensions between the Venezuelan government and the influence of US governmental interests, raising significant political stakes. The accusations target not only Tellechea but also hint at deeper systemic issues within the oil sector and governmental ties post-2020's international sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies.)