Energy Secretary Chris Wright told reporters that there is a "real possibility" the U.S. might use its Export-Import Bank to 'fund large oil projects' in Venezuela. This was before President Donald Trump met with industry executives later on Friday.

Wright stated in an interview with Fox News that Trump would "help create conditions" to allow oil companies to operate in Venezuela, but that most investments would be made using business capital. He also said that oil companies had not yet asked the administration for any money.

When asked if the U.S. was interested in investing in the companies, Wright said that "no discussion has taken place yet." (Reporting and editing by Katharine Jack; Susan Heavey)

(source: Reuters)