President Trump Orders Full Blockade of Sanctioned Venezuelan Oil Tankers
Trump labeled Venezuela’s regime a foreign terrorist organization and ordered a blockade until disputed oil, land, and assets are returned, intensifying sanctions enforcement.
Summary
On Dec. 17, President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela is surrounded by South America’s largest fleet and ordered a complete blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. The directive aims to halt the movement of vessels under U.S. sanctions until stolen oil, land, and assets are returned. Trump also designated the Venezuelan regime a foreign terrorist organization, marking a significant escalation in U.S. pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government.
Terms & Concepts
- Sanctions: Government-imposed restrictions or penalties on trade or financial transactions with specific countries or entities, often for political or security reasons.
- Oil Tanker: A large ship designed for transporting crude oil or petroleum products across seas and oceans.
- Blockade: The act of preventing goods, ships, or people from entering or leaving a country or area, usually for military or political purposes.