Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling on the federal Liberal government to immediately approve a new oil pipeline to Canada’s Pacific Coast, warning that recent actions by the United States in Venezuela could threaten Canadian oil exports to American refineries.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Mark Carney and posted publicly on Tuesday, Poilievre said the U.S. decision to effectively end sanctions and move toward reviving Venezuela’s oil sector has shifted global energy dynamics. He argued that a resurgence in Venezuelan heavy crude production could directly compete with Canadian oil in U.S. markets that specialize in processing similar grades.

Poilievre said Canada was right to refuse recognition of Venezuela’s government following disputed elections and longstanding human rights concerns, but warned that political developments could still have economic consequences. He said Canadian producers risk losing market share if Venezuelan oil returns to American refineries in large volumes, making access to new export markets increasingly urgent.

Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, estimated at more than 300 billion barrels. While the country’s oil infrastructure has suffered years of neglect, some analysts believe production could rise significantly with renewed investment, intensifying competition with Canada’s energy sector.

The Conservative leader also pointed to uncertainty within the Liberal caucus over support for a West Coast pipeline. Although the federal government signed an agreement with Alberta last fall to work toward at least one privately financed coastal pipeline with Indigenous participation, Poilievre said his party wants a firm commitment that any submitted proposal would be approved within 60 days.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith echoed those concerns this week, saying developments in Venezuela underscore the need to diversify Canada’s oil export markets. Smith said her government is preparing an application for federal review and expects Ottawa to move quickly once it is submitted.