In a bold move this week, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a total blockade of all “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and from Venezuela. The decision, made on his platform Truth Social, cranks up the pressure on Caracas over its oil exports 🚢⛽️.
Here’s the quick rundown:
- What’s happening: Trump ordered “a total and complete blockade” of sanctioned tankers in the Caribbean.
- Why it matters: The U.S. has a growing naval armada—including the world’s largest aircraft carrier—aimed at pressuring Venezuela to return “all of the oil, land, and other assets” allegedly stolen from the U.S. 🤔.
- Venezuela’s response: President Nicolás Maduro’s government slammed the blockade as “absolutely irrational” and a violation of free commerce and navigability.
Trump argues that Venezuela is using its oil revenues to fund “drug terrorism, human trafficking, murder, and kidnapping.” On the flip side, Caracas claims the U.S. military buildup is a cover to “steal” Venezuelan oil under the guise of anti-drug operations.
It’s been a tense few weeks: military jets have buzzed the Venezuelan coast, U.S. forces have struck suspected drug-smuggling boats (reportedly causing over 90 casualties), and the U.S. even seized an oil tanker last week. Meanwhile, the FAA has warned civilian pilots to “exercise caution” in Venezuelan airspace due to “heightened military activity.”
Many airlines have already rerouted flights around Venezuela, causing big travel headaches in the region ✈️. With tensions running high, all eyes are on whether this blockade will force Caracas to the negotiation table—or escalate into a bigger standoff.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. 🌍
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
