Developments in $27 billion case against Chevron

Developments in $27 billion case against Chevron

Chevron Corp. says it will oppose a judge’s ruling expected later this year in a $27 billion environmental lawsuit in Ecuador. Here’s why.

CHEVRON’S CLAIM: The San Ramon, Calif.-based oil giant says that Ecuador’s President Rafael Correa is forcing the judge to rule against Chevron. It recently released secret videos that it claims shows the judge discussing the case with businessmen. Chevron says the videos prove the case has already been decided against it.

ECUADOR’S RESPONSE: The country’s Office of the Solicitor General called Chevron did a poor job translating the videos. It will ask Chevron for “any and all” evidence that may support the company’s claims.

WHAT’S NEXT: The judge, Juan Evangelista Nunez, plans to hand down his ruling as early as October. Chevron says it won’t pay any damages.