- While much of the world seeks alternatives to fossil fuels, and even oil-dependent economies promise to diversify, Venezuela's political elites have chosen a path of increased production, lower rent intake, and promising reliable supply of a decaying source of energy.

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- Venezuela, on the other hand, shows little signs of desiring taking a different path than revamping its oil industry in largely unequal conditions with foreign powers, be that China (under Chávez/Maduro) or the US (under Rodríguez or Machado).

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- Despite the loop-sided terms, the level of investment would give a breath of fresh air to the de facto regime and could cement a long term alliance with the foreign power that supports it, delaying a much-discussed upon transition to democracy.

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- If the rough calculations that have emerged are correct, Rodríguez may have agreed to terms that represent a greater giveaway than the regime of Venezuela's 20th century despot Juan Vicente Gómez. Not a figure anybody wants to be in Venezuelan history.

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- Some have speculated that control over 17 oil camps will be transferred in concession (a figure long gone in Venezuelan law after the nationalization of oil in 1976) for 100 years (or less?).

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