The United States extends protection for Venezuelan state-owned company Citgo, shielding it from creditors' claims.

This general license issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control aims to encourage investment and increase Venezuela's oil production. At the same time, it strengthens the United States’ protection of Houston-based Citgo and its overseas parent company, assets regarded as the "crown jewel" among Venezuela's overseas holdings. Citgo is the eighth largest refiner in the United States. Previously, the license issued by OFAC in March was originally set to expire on May 5.