- Alejandro Betancourt — once the subject of U.S., Swiss and Spanish probes over alleged PDVSA money‑laundering — is now a pivotal broker in a U.S.-Venezuela oil deal that gives Washington long-term access to roughly one-fifth of Venezuela’s crude.
- He reportedly helped enforce a U.S. naval blockade and broker oil exports (about 135 million barrels since January), increasing his influence with both U.S. and Venezuelan officials.
- The rapid shift from suspect to key intermediary has raised concerns among former prosecutors and intelligence officials, since investigations remain unresolved though no charges have been brought.
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