Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is threatening to shut the spigot on oil exports to the U.S.  after ExxonMobil succeeded in freezing billions in Venezuelan assets as compensation for nationalizing enormous oil fields operated by ExxonMobile. DALLAS PARKER of Thompson & Knight, an energy attorney who closely follows South American energy markets, doubts that Chavez can afford to implement his threat, at least in the near future. "U.S. oil exports represents about three-quarters of Venezuela's total export earnings, which I don't think the Venezuelan economy could stand to lose in the short-term," says Parker. "Venezuela's economy is heavily dependent on imports, especially food. The reduction in oil-based income would have immediate, serious implications for the Venezuelan economy and people." To interview Mr. Parker, contact Barry Pound at 800-559-4534 or barry@androvett.com.