Tensions rise between US and Venezuela, Trump orders blockade of oil tankers

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): Tensions between the United States and Venezuela appear to be intensifying further. In a strong move, US President Donald Trump has ordered a complete blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela. The decision is being seen as part of a broader strategy to increase pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government, a move that could significantly impact Venezuela’s already fragile economy.

The decision comes at a time when, last week, the US military seized an oil tanker near the Venezuelan coast. Given the rising military activity in the region, this action is being described as unusual. Announcing the blockade on social media, Trump alleged that Venezuela is using oil revenues to finance drug trafficking and other criminal activities. He also made it clear that US military deployment in the area will continue.

In his statement, Trump claimed that Venezuela is now under what he described as the largest naval encirclement in South American history, adding that pressure on the country will increase further in the coming days. He said that until Venezuela returns assets that he alleges were taken from the United States, Washington will continue to take steps with unprecedented consequences.

On the other hand, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has rejected US pressure and emphasized the country’s resilience. In an address broadcast on state television, Maduro said Venezuela has been facing multi-dimensional attacks for months and has managed to counter them successfully. He described the situation as a conspiracy ranging from psychological warfare to maritime piracy and reaffirmed that Venezuela remains committed to protecting its sovereignty and peace.

It is important to note that Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves and produces around one million barrels of oil per day. The country’s economy has long been heavily dependent on oil revenues, making the latest US action potentially far-reaching in its impact.