In a bold move to ramp up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the White House has ordered the US military to shift focus almost entirely to enforcing a two-month “quarantine” on Venezuelan oil imports and exports. 🛢️⚓
Instead of immediate military strikes, the strategy leans on tough economic sanctions backed by naval patrols. A senior US official told Reuters that this “quarantine” aims to squeeze Venezuela’s oil revenues and push the government toward making significant concessions. By late January 2026, Washington expects Venezuela to face a severe economic crisis unless it negotiates with the US.
Already, the tanker Bella I, the third ship pursued by US forces, diverted from its route to Venezuela and is now turning back over the Atlantic. The White House’s “full and total blockade” order last week also designated Maduro’s government as a US-designated foreign terrorist organization.
Venezuelan authorities have condemned the oil interceptions as piracy, accusing the US of seeking regime change in Latin America. Trump himself warned that if Maduro doesn’t step down, it could be the last time he’s ever able to play tough.
On December 24, the UN Security Council called for respect for the UN Charter and urged restraint to prevent further escalation. With oil prices already feeling the heat globally, young professionals across Asia may see ripple effects in fuel costs and inflation early next year. 🚗💸
Whether this bold tactic triggers real diplomatic talks or heightens tensions, the next couple of months promise to be a test of diplomatic muscle and economic resilience. Stay tuned as we watch how this develops—and what it means for global energy and geopolitics. 🌍
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White House orders military to focus on Venezuelan oil 'quarantine'
cgtn.com
