As reported by the BBC on December 17, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on December 16, 2025, that the United States would impose a total blockade on sanctioned oil tankers associated with Venezuelan crude exports, citing allegations of drug trafficking and illicit financing tied to the Maduro government. The move increases enforcement risk for shipping, raises uncertainty over Venezuelan oil supply, and may affect buyers, including China. Read full defense news at this link...
 |
| Tankers sanctioned by the US that are trying to load or transport Venezuelan crude could now be intercepted, detained, or prevented from entering or leaving Venezuelan ports, with their cargoes at risk of being seized if they attempt to run the blockade. (Picture source: US Navy) |