President Donald Trump has ordered a “total and complete blockade” of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, sharply escalating pressure on President Nicolás Maduro. The announcement follows last week’s US military seizure of a sanctioned oil tanker that had departed a Venezuelan port.
The administration has not clarified how many vessels would be affected, but Trump’s statement suggests further seizures are likely.
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) December 17, 2025
Venezuela condemned the move, calling it illegal and accusing Washington of piracy and economic aggression.
US officials argue the crackdown targets a black market oil trade used to fund illicit activity. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said the action is unlikely to drive global oil prices higher, CBS News reported.
Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest oil reserves but remains heavily sanctioned over human rights concerns and disputed elections.
Since returning to office, Trump has intensified economic and military pressure on Maduro, while leaving open the possibility of future land-based strikes.
Also read:
TIPP Staff
