Trump claims that Caracas uses funds from oil sales to finance drug trafficking and other illegal activities. He also promised to increase the U.S. military presence until Venezuela agrees to concessions. In his post on the social media platform Truth Social, the president stated that Venezuela is "surrounded by the largest armada ever assembled in South America."
In response to these actions, the Venezuelan government issued a statement accusing Trump of violating international law and the principles of free trade and navigation. Venezuelan authorities viewed the U.S. actions as an attempt to illegally seize natural resources and intend to raise this issue for discussion at the United Nations.
According to international news agencies, U.S. sanctions against Venezuela have been ongoing for several years. As early as 2019, Washington imposed restrictions on the state oil company PDVSA, effectively blocking its access to international oil markets. As a result, most Venezuelan oil is sold at reduced prices through alternative channels, including Asian markets.
Venezuela has the largest proven oil reserves in the world and produces about 1 million barrels per day. The country's economy heavily depends on revenues from energy resource exports.
According to international publications, U.S. Navy ships, including an aircraft carrier and landing vessels, as well as maritime patrol aircraft, are in the region. However, specific details regarding the implementation of the blockade of oil tankers have not yet been officially disclosed.
