On December 19, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury unveiled fresh sanctions targeting key figures linked to Nicolás Maduro’s inner circle, accusing them of propping up what Washington calls a "rogue narco-state." ⚡
The move hits family and associates of the Maduro-Flores clan. Last week, Carlos Erik Malpica Flores – nephew of First Lady Cilia Flores – was sanctioned over alleged corruption at state oil company PDVSA. Now, his mother, father, sister, wife and daughter face asset freezes and travel bans.
What’s at stake? Beyond pressuring Venezuela’s leadership, these measures aim to curb drug trafficking into the U.S. and protect U.S.-based energy interests like Citgo Petroleum. The Treasury also extended a special license for Citgo operations through February 3, 2026, ensuring refineries in Houston can keep running without creditor seizures.
In recent months, the Trump administration has ramped up pressure: naval buildups in the southern Caribbean, strikes on suspected drug vessels, and even talk of a full blockade on sanctioned oil tankers. President Trump has hinted that land strikes in Venezuela could be next, raising global tensions.
Critics in Caracas deny all links to crime and accuse the U.S. of seeking control over Venezuela’s oil riches. Meanwhile, the sanctions saga underscores a high-stakes chess game in the global oil market – one that could ripple out to fuel prices and energy security in Asia and beyond. 🌏
Stay tuned as this story develops – the next moves could reshape geopolitics and your daily commute in ways you might not expect! 🔍
Reference(s):
U.S. sanctions more individuals allegedly supporting Maduro's rule
cgtn.com
