US President Donald Trump has ordered a "full and final" blockade of all sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers. Caracas condemned the move as an open act of aggression. Trump stated that the government of Nicolas Maduro is now officially recognized as a foreign terrorist organization engaged in "drug smuggling and human trafficking." This was reported by the BBC, writes UNN.
Details
According to Trump, Venezuela is surrounded by the "largest armada in South American history," including the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford. The American leader accuses the regime of using "stolen" oil to finance murders and narco-terrorism. Earlier, the US had already seized the tanker "Skipper" and launched attacks on suspected smugglers' vessels, resulting in the deaths of 90 people.
Reaction to Washington's actions:
- Venezuela: Maduro called the seizure of vessels "piracy" and accused the US of attempting to steal the country's oil resources.
- US Congress: Democrats called the blockade an "act of war" and are preparing a resolution to end military actions.
- UN: Representatives of the organization warn of increased repression and "strangulation of freedoms" within Venezuela.
The country's economy, which has the largest oil reserves in the world, remains in a critical state due to increased sanctions. Trump emphasized that the US military presence in the region will only grow until the regime ceases its illegal activities.
Oil prices rose after Trump's blockade of Venezuelan tankers - Reuters17.12.25, 04:40