US President Donald Trump has ordered 'a total and complete' blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, a decision that has been met with severe backlash from the Venezuelan government, which has termed the act as 'warmongering threats'. In a recent statement, Trump declared the Venezuelan government under President Nicolás Maduro as a foreign terrorist organization due to alleged involvement in drug smuggling and human trafficking.
His comments follow the US's recent seizure of an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, an action that could have substantial implications given Venezuela's heavy reliance on oil exports. With escalating tensions, the US has bolstered its military presence nearby, including carrying out strikes on supposed Venezuelan drug trafficking boats.
Details about the enforcement of the blockade remain vague, but reports indicate over 30 of the 80 ships in Venezuelan waters were already under US sanctions. Moreover, Trump’s assertions suggest an expansive application of previously limited designations of terrorism towards Maduro’s entire administration.
As Venezuela retaliates, accusing the US of attempting to pilfer its resources, the international community observes cautiously with concerns growing over a potential military confrontation. Trump's recent declaration and the US's military setup in the Caribbean have raised alarms, with experts and lawmakers debating the implications of these actions in terms of international law and the potential for escalating conflict.
The ongoing confrontation marks a significant chapter in the long-standing US-Venezuela rift and continues to unfold with global attention.
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