U.S. Implements Maritime Blockade Against Venezuela
On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump mandated a "total and complete blockade" targeting all oil tankers under sanctions that are traveling to or from Venezuela. This action represents Washington's latest effort to exert pressure on the administration led by Nicolas Maduro, focusing on the nation's primary revenue source.
"For the theft of our Assets, and many other reasons, including Terrorism, Drug Smuggling, and Human Trafficking, the Venezuelan Regime has been designated a FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATION," Trump stated on Truth Social. "Therefore, today, I am ordering A TOTAL AND COMPLETE BLOCKADE OF ALL SANCTIONED OIL TANKERS going into, and out of, Venezuela."
The specifics of how this blockade will be enforced remain uncertain, including whether non-sanctioned vessels might also be affected. The U.S. has already deployed significant military assets to the region, including thousands of troops and numerous warships.
Market Reactions and Political Responses
Following the announcement, U.S. crude oil prices increased by over 1% in Asian trading, reaching $55.96 per barrel. Market analysts noted that prices are rising due to expectations of reduced Venezuelan exports, though the full impact depends on enforcement details.
Venezuela's government promptly rejected what it called Trump's "grotesque threat." Meanwhile, U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro, a Democrat from Texas, criticized the move, stating it is "unquestionably an act of war." He added on X, "A war that the Congress never authorized and the American people do not want."
Existing Embargo and Regional Tensions
An effective embargo has been in place since last week when the U.S. seized a sanctioned oil tanker near Venezuela's coast. This has led to a sharp decline in Venezuelan crude exports, exacerbated by a recent cyberattack on state-run PDVSA's systems.
Data from TankerTrackers.com indicates that more than 30 of the 80 ships in or near Venezuelan waters are under U.S. sanctions. The situation has heightened tensions, with Trump's pressure campaign including increased military presence and strikes on vessels, resulting in numerous casualties.
Maduro has accused the U.S. of seeking to overthrow his government and control Venezuela's vast oil reserves. "Imperialism and the fascist right want to colonize Venezuela to take over its wealth of oil, gas, gold, among other minerals," Maduro said at an event on Tuesday. "We have sworn absolutely to defend our homeland and in Venezuela peace will triumph."
The ongoing measures could further disrupt global oil supply, potentially pushing prices higher if the blockade persists.
