![ExxonMobil is accused of funding the Venezuelan opposition through cryptocurrency](https://i-invdn-com.investing.com/news/LYNXNPEB6U0PS_L.jpg)
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Venezuelan prosecutor Tarek William Saab has accused ExxonMobil of participating in a scheme to finance opposition activities against Venezuela’s position in Essequibo territory. The allegations were made after the December 3 referendum regarding the disputed area.
Saab claims that the oil giant used the USDT cryptocurrency and intermediaries to transfer funds to conspirators opposing the Venezuelan government’s position on Essequibo. As a result, fourteen arrest warrants were issued for various individuals, including opposition leaders and former allies of the late President Hugo Chavez.
The controversial referendum saw more than 10 million Venezuelans vote. According to Mr. Saab, funding activities for the opposition involve individuals with ties to political figures from the US and El Salvador.
In response to these allegations, ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods denied any involvement in such activities. In a recent interview, Woods emphasized the company’s focus on assisting Guyana in developing its resources rather than engaging in political intrigue.
This scandal is reminiscent of an incident earlier this year when officials from Sunacrip, Venezuela’s cryptocurrency regulator, were arrested for corruption related to cryptocurrency transactions involving the sale of oil.
The implications of these allegations could have important implications for ExxonMobil’s operations and relations in the region, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Essequibo territory.
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