U.S. President Donald Trump issued a fresh ultimatum to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Monday as the U.S. Coast Guard intensifies operations to intercept oil tankers in the Caribbean Sea. This move is part of the Trump administration’s increasing pressure tactics on the Caracas government.
During a meeting with top national security officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trump hinted at the possibility of further escalating his ongoing pressure campaign on the Maduro regime. Initially focused on curbing the flow of illegal drugs from Venezuela, the campaign has evolved into a broader initiative.
Speaking from his Florida residence, Trump warned Maduro that any aggressive actions would have severe consequences. He also announced plans for the Navy to construct a new, sizable warship to reinforce U.S. efforts in the region.
The U.S. Coast Guard’s pursuit of a sanctioned oil tanker continued into its second day on Monday. This tanker, part of Venezuela’s alleged “dark fleet” evading U.S. sanctions, is under a U.S. judicial seizure order. Trump expressed confidence in intercepting the tanker, stating, “It’s moving along, and we’ll end up getting it.”
This marks the third tanker pursued by the U.S. Coast Guard, following the recent seizure of the Panama-flagged vessel Centuries and another sanctioned tanker named Skipper. Trump previously mentioned a blockade against Venezuela after the first seizure, underscoring his determination to pressure Maduro’s government.
In a separate development, tanker activity in Venezuela decreased significantly on Monday, with most vessels transporting oil within the country. Observers noted a tanker associated with the shadow fleet moving between Venezuelan refineries, reflecting the country’s diminished oil production compared to previous years.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly in Venezuela approved a measure to criminalize activities related to the seizure of oil tankers. Lawmaker Giuseppe Alessandrello introduced the bill, proposing severe penalties for those involved in acts of piracy or blockades against commercial entities operating with Venezuela.
Russian diplomats have initiated evacuations of their families from Caracas amid escalating tensions. The Russian Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela, with Foreign Minister Yvan Gil discussing the matter with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. Russia expressed support for Venezuela against perceived U.S. aggression in the region.
The U.S. Defence Department, acting on Trump’s directives, continues operations targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean. These actions have raised concerns, with critics questioning the evidence supporting the strikes and alleging violations of international law.
Overall, the situation remains tense as geopolitical tensions persist between the U.S., Venezuela, and other involved parties.
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