Who is Betancourt, the man behind the company the US is partnering with in Venezuela?

NPR | By Julia Simon

Published September 2, 2026 at 4:41 AM EDT

The man behind the company that the US is partnering with in Venezuela is Alejandro Betancourt. He has faced multiple investigations in Spain, the United States and Switzerland for money laundering.

Related Content

Understanding the tech giants' oversized influence in American schools

Terry Gross

Big tech companies like Apple and Microsoft use devices, training and conferences for teachers and students to embed in schools. The New York Times' Natasha Singer discusses the impact in Coding Kids.
Iran fires on its Gulf neighbors, retaliating for U.S. strikes after a monthlong lull

The Associated Press

The six-month war has led to a spike in oil prices, roiled the global economy and posed increasing political problems for President Trump's Republican Party ahead of November midterm elections.
Greetings from the Royal Pavilion, a stunning reminder of India in southern England

Lauren Frayer

Looking up at this 18th century building, it became clear the British didn't only bring their architectural style to India. They also took some of India's style home.
Chevron to expand in Venezuela, days after the U.S. and Venezuela strike oil deal

Willa Rubin

Chevron is the largest foreign oil operator in Venezuela. The deal will expand its footprint at a time of political and economic uncertainty for Venezuela.
Medical groups offer vaccine guidance to fill federal vacuum

Rob Stein

In the unprecedented absence of federal guidance, leading medical groups are issuing their own recommendations for who should get the COVID-19, flu and RSV immunizations.

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.