Correct Answer:
D. United States
Correct answer: United States. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data, the United States maintained its position as the world's leading producer of crude oil (averaging over 13 million barrels per day).
Background: US hydraulic fracturing and shale development boosted total output past Russia and Saudi Arabia.
- Russia: Second/third largest producer globally.
- Saudi Arabia: Top global exporter and major producer within OPEC.
- Iran: Major producer but produces lower overall volume due to capacity and sanctions.
Did you know? The US became the top crude oil producer starting around 2018.
Memory trick: Top crude oil producer = United States.