Can Maduro survive as Trump's oil pressure campaign hits his regime’s weak spot?

The Trump administration is escalating pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by targeting the country's oil trade. New measures include seizing tankers and enforcing a blockade on sanctioned vessels. Venezuela is highly dependent on oil, which accounts for the vast majority of its exports and government revenue. Experts say that these actions directly threaten Maduro's revenue streams, which he uses to maintain power. Currently, millions of barrels of Venezuelan crude are stranded on tankers offshore due to the blockade. While the US actions have raised concerns among European allies, the US believes that cutting off the oil revenue will undermine Maduro's power.

On December 16, 2025, President Trump ordered a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers traveling to and from Venezuela, escalating pressure against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The U.S. military has been building up its naval presence in the Caribbean, and recently seized a tanker carrying Venezuelan oil. Venezuela depends entirely on tankers to export its oil, and this action could significantly impact the country's economy. The U.S. military has also been conducting airstrikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, purportedly to combat drug trafficking, though legal experts question the legality and target of these actions. The Trump administration has been focused on Venezuela's oil reserves.

Brazilian meat tycoon Joesley Batista, known for past corruption and environmental violations, has emerged as an unexpected player in regional diplomacy. In November, he flew to Caracas to meet with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, reportedly at the behest of Donald Trump, to convince him to step down. While this effort failed, Batista is credited with playing a key role in improving relations between Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. After tariffs were imposed on Brazilian imports, Batista lobbied the US administration, even meeting with Trump, arguing the tariffs hurt American consumers. His efforts were instrumental in easing tensions between the two countries.

The US military has announced strikes on three boats in the Pacific Ocean, resulting in eight deaths. US Southern Command stated the vessels were involved in drug trafficking along known routes. These strikes are part of an escalating campaign initiated by President Trump against alleged drug-running gangs in the region, with over 20 vessels targeted and at least 90 people killed in recent months in both the Pacific and Caribbean. Some experts suggest these actions may violate laws governing armed conflict. The Trump administration has accused Venezuela of drug trafficking and has increased efforts to isolate President Nicolás Maduro. Tensions are high, with US forces and naval assets positioned near Venezuela, and recent seizures of oil tankers have further strained relations.

The US military recently conducted deadly strikes on three foreign vessels in the Eastern Pacific, killing eight individuals suspected of narcotics trafficking. US Southern Command stated the vessels were traveling along known drug routes. These strikes are part of a larger campaign initiated under the Trump administration targeting drug trafficking in the Pacific and Caribbean, near Venezuela. To date, over 20 vessels have been struck and at least 90 suspected smugglers have been killed. The US government defends the legality of these actions under both US and international law. This militarized approach to combating drug smuggling has faced scrutiny, with some legal experts questioning the legality of the strikes.

A report by Polaris National Security, titled "100 Trump Foreign Policy Wins From 2025 the Media Wants You to Miss," details what the group considers 100 foreign policy achievements during President Trump's second term. Released Wednesday, the report chronologically lists actions from January 2025 to the present, emphasizing deterrence, alliance burden-sharing, and direct engagement with adversaries. It highlights actions in the Western Hemisphere, including counter-narcotics operations off the coast of Venezuela, such as Operation Southern Spear, and the increased reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The report also focuses on the October Gaza ceasefire involving the United States, Israel, and Hamas, calling it a central diplomatic breakthrough. Polaris National Security asserts these actions demonstrate a reassertion of American strength on the global stage.

White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller claimed Venezuela's oil rightfully belongs to the U.S., asserting the country's nationalization of the oil industry was "theft." Miller stated that American ingenuity created the Venezuelan oil industry and its expropriation funded terrorism and drug trafficking. His comments follow President Trump's intensified "maximum pressure" campaign against Venezuela since returning to office in January 2025. Trump announced a blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers, echoing Miller's claims of stolen oil. While U.S. and British companies were involved in early Venezuelan oil exploration, international law recognizes Venezuela's sovereignty over its natural resources. Venezuela nationalized its oil sector in 1976 and further ousted foreign oil projects in 2007, leading to legal challenges and ongoing disputes.

Donald Trump announced a "total and complete" blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers going into and out of Venezuela, accusing Nicolás Maduro's government of terrorism, drug smuggling, and human trafficking. This announcement follows the US seizing an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela and imposing fresh sanctions on ships and individuals associated with Maduro's regime. Trump stated Venezuela is surrounded by a large US armada and accused Maduro's government of using stolen oil to finance illicit activities. The US has long opposed the Maduro government and implemented sanctions to pressure his removal. Venezuela has condemned the US actions, accusing Washington of stealing its resources and kidnapping the crew of the seized tanker.

Donald Trump ordered a complete blockade of sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, escalating pressure on Nicolás Maduro's government. This action follows increased U.S. military presence in the region, including strikes on vessels and the recent seizure of an oil tanker allegedly carrying Venezuelan crude. Trump claims Venezuela uses oil to fund illegal activities and vowed to increase military presence. The Venezuelan government condemned the blockade as a "grotesque threat" and an attempt to steal their resources. The U.S. has deployed thousands of troops and warships to the area, though the exact method of enforcing the blockade remains unclear. A U.S. congressman has characterized the blockade as "an act of war."

Venezuelan oil exports have reportedly declined sharply following the US seizure of the tanker Skipper and the imposition of new sanctions on shipping companies and vessels trading with Venezuela. The US seized the Skipper off the Venezuelan coast on Wednesday, marking the first capture of Venezuelan oil cargo since sanctions were imposed in 2019. Since the seizure, only tankers chartered by Chevron, which has US government authorization, have exported Venezuelan crude. Approximately 11 million barrels of oil and fuel remain stuck in Venezuelan waters on other tankers. The Skipper, allegedly falsely flying the flag of Guyana, is reportedly heading to Houston to offload its cargo. Washington is reportedly preparing to intercept more ships transporting Venezuelan oil.

The United States issued new sanctions on Venezuela's oil sector and members of President Nicolás Maduro's family on Thursday, December 11, 2025. These actions aim to increase pressure on Maduro's regime, which the U.S. accuses of smuggling oil due to existing sanctions. The sanctions target three nephews of Maduro's wife and six shipping companies. Separately, the Trump administration is seeking legal authority to seize oil from the tanker "Skipper," which U.S. forces seized in international waters near Venezuela. While a warrant exists for the tanker itself, authorities are pursuing one for the cargo of oil originating from a Venezuelan state-owned company. The administration suggests the seizure is also related to concerns about immigration from Venezuela.

Venezuela's President Maduro claims escalating US pressure, including sanctions and military actions, is driven by a desire to seize Venezuela's vast oil reserves. While Venezuela holds the world's largest proven oil reserves, its production has significantly declined due to government control, lack of investment, and US sanctions imposed since 2015. Current output is a fraction of what it was a decade ago, representing less than 1% of global consumption. Some US figures suggest American companies could revitalize Venezuela's oil industry, but the country's damaged infrastructure and existing sanctions pose significant challenges. The US actions against Venezuela include seizing oil tankers and military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking vessels.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Moscow's support for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a phone call on Thursday, amid increasing U.S. pressure. The call occurred as the U.S. intensifies its efforts to remove Maduro, including increased military activity and sanctions enforcement. The two leaders discussed advancing their strategic partnership and joint projects in the economic and energy sectors. This conversation followed the U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, which Venezuela condemned as a violation of sovereignty. Russia and Venezuela have maintained a close relationship for over two decades, focusing on defense, energy, and finance, particularly as both nations face international isolation.

The US military seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, according to President Trump, in an escalation of pressure against Nicolás Maduro's government. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated the tanker was transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. Venezuela condemned the action as "international piracy," accusing the US of seeking to steal its resources. The US claims Venezuela is funnelling narcotics into the US and alleges the tanker was involved in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations. The operation involved helicopters launched from the USS Gerald Ford, Coast Guard members, Marines, and special forces. The seizure has stoked short-term supply concerns, causing Brent crude prices to rise, and analysts warn it could further disrupt Venezuela's oil exports.

In December 2025, the U.S. government seized the oil tanker Skipper in the Caribbean Sea. The tanker was carrying Venezuelan oil from the state-owned company PDVSA and sailing under the flag of Guyana, though not registered there. U.S. officials suspect the ship of concealing its location and having links to Iranian oil smuggling, previously transporting oil to Syria and China. The seizure is part of President Trump's ongoing pressure campaign against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The U.S. Treasury Department had previously sanctioned the ship in 2022 for supporting Hezbollah and the Quds Force. More seizures of tankers carrying Venezuelan oil are expected.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado secretly traveled to Oslo, Norway, to accept her Nobel Peace Prize, marking her first public appearance since January. Despite a travel ban and threats from the Venezuelan government, who consider her a fugitive and terrorist, Machado made the covert journey. She told the BBC that leaving Venezuela was "very, very dangerous" due to the risks involved. Machado, who has been in hiding for months, acknowledged the risks people took to facilitate her travel. The 58-year-old's appearance in Oslo occurred in the middle of the night.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado made a secret journey from Venezuela to Oslo, Norway, where she held a press conference with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Machado expressed hope that Venezuela will be free and become a beacon of democracy. She emphasized the love of Venezuelans for their country, freedom, and children as her motivation. The article also mentions Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán welcoming US criticism of the EU, and other European leaders discussing NATO and the war in Ukraine.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado made her first public appearance in months in Oslo, Norway, where she traveled to receive her Nobel Peace Prize. Despite a travel ban and threats from the Venezuelan government, Machado arrived in Oslo after a covert journey and greeted supporters from a hotel balcony. Her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf earlier in the day, awarded in recognition of Machado's efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela. Machado, who has been separated from her children for two years, expressed joy at reuniting with them. She has been a vocal critic of President Nicolás Maduro and was barred from running in last year's presidential elections.

Nicolás Maduro claims the US military presence in the Caribbean is driven by Venezuela's vast oil reserves, a claim the US denies, citing a focus on combating drug trafficking. Despite this, the US seems intent on regime change in Venezuela, a country allied with China, Russia, and Iran. While some, like Colombia's President Petro, support Maduro's claim, arguing it's a negotiation about oil, analysts suggest oil is only one factor. Venezuela's oil production is currently low due to corruption, mismanagement, and underinvestment, making it a less significant player in the global market. Revitalizing the sector would require substantial investment and time.

Donald Trump has increased pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, including doubling the reward for information leading to his capture and positioning warships nearby. Trump reportedly gave Maduro an ultimatum to leave Venezuela during a phone call in November. The US, among other countries, considers Maduro's 2024 election illegitimate, recognizing Edmundo González as "president-elect," though González is in exile. Trump blames Maduro for the influx of Venezuelan migrants into the US, alleging Maduro is emptying prisons and asylums and forcing inmates to migrate. Trump has also designated Venezuelan criminal groups, including one allegedly led by Maduro, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations as part of his war on drugs. Maduro's government has been accused of controlling key institutions and contributing to an economic crisis and political repression that has led to millions of Venezuelans fleeing the country since 2013.

In December 2025, President Trump confirmed a call with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and deployed a US carrier to the Caribbean. This occurred after speculation that Maduro had fled Venezuela, where he then reappeared. The moves raise questions about the motivations behind Washington's pressure campaign against Venezuela. The article highlights a debate over whether the US actions are driven by concerns about drugs, oil interests, or a political power struggle. It also notes that these actions are based on claims not fully supported by facts and that Congress is divided on how to proceed. The article aims to delve into the facts surrounding the situation.

Amidst escalating threats of U.S. military action under the Trump administration, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is taking heightened security measures to protect himself. Sources close to the Venezuelan government report that Maduro is frequently changing sleeping locations and cellphones to avoid potential strikes. He has also increased the presence of Cuban bodyguards and counterintelligence officers within his security detail and military. While tension grips Maduro's inner circle, he publicly downplays the threats, maintaining a relaxed appearance. These precautions have reportedly accelerated since September, coinciding with increased U.S. military presence in the region. Maduro believes he can withstand this latest challenge to his rule.

Amidst escalating threats of U.S. military action under the Trump administration, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is taking heightened security measures to protect himself. Sources close to the Venezuelan government report that Maduro is frequently changing sleeping locations and cellphones to avoid potential strikes. He has also increased the presence of Cuban bodyguards and counterintelligence officers within his security detail and military. While tension grips Maduro's inner circle, he publicly downplays the threats, maintaining a relaxed appearance. These precautions have reportedly accelerated since September, coinciding with increased U.S. military presence in the region. Maduro believes he can withstand this latest challenge to his rule.

The White House has clarified the Defense Secretary's role in US strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean, stating the order was for strikes but not to "kill everybody." These strikes have been ongoing for months amidst heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela, along with a significant US military buildup in the region. The US has been conducting these strikes in the Caribbean for months. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, in power since 2013, has accused Donald Trump of seeking his removal from office. Maduro has warned that Venezuelans will resist any such attempts. Despite the tensions, the US appears to be keeping diplomatic channels open with Venezuela.

Donald Trump reportedly gave Nicolás Maduro an ultimatum during a phone call on November 21, demanding he relinquish power immediately and offering safe passage for him and his family. Maduro refused, instead requesting a "global amnesty" and control of the armed forces. The call, brokered by Brazil, Qatar, and Turkey, has not been officially detailed by either the US or Venezuelan governments. Trump confirmed the call took place but offered no further details. Maduro reportedly requested a second call, which went unanswered. Despite the alleged ultimatum, skepticism remains regarding potential US military action. Maduro has weathered numerous crises during his presidency, including previous pressure campaigns from the US.

Donald Trump confirmed he recently spoke with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, but declined to provide details about the conversation, which reportedly included discussion of a possible meeting in the United States. The call occurred amid escalating tensions, with Trump using strong rhetoric regarding Venezuela and considering options to combat Maduro's alleged role in drug trafficking. These options reportedly include attempts to overthrow Maduro and potential US military operations, following a buildup in the Caribbean and strikes on suspected drug boats. Trump's administration has faced criticism over these strikes, with concerns raised about potential violations of international law and extrajudicial killings. Maduro and his administration have not commented on the phone call.

US President Donald Trump recently announced that the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela is to be closed entirely. The Venezuelan government responded with a statement, calling Trump's comments a "colonialist threat" against their sovereignty and violating international law. The government demanded respect for its airspace and refused to accept foreign orders or threats. As a result, all migrant deportation flights were suspended. The US defense department did not comment on the matter. The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Venezuela, with Trump authorizing covert CIA operations in the country and accusing President Nicolás Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking.

Venezuela condemned Donald Trump's warning that the airspace around the country should be considered closed, calling it a "colonialist threat." Trump's statement, made on Truth Social, followed a US Federal Aviation Administration warning about heightened military activity near Venezuela, which led to some airlines suspending flights. Venezuela's foreign ministry urged international rejection of what it considers an act of aggression. The US has increased its military presence in the region, citing efforts to combat drug trafficking, and has conducted strikes on boats it claims were carrying drugs. Some US lawmakers have criticized Trump for not seeking congressional approval, emphasizing Congress's sole power to declare war. Venezuela conducted military exercises along its coast in response.

Amid rising tensions with the U.S., Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro rallied supporters in Caracas, brandishing the sword of Simón Bolívar and warning of "imperialist aggression." Maduro urged Venezuelans to prepare for confrontation, framing the situation as a struggle against external threats. His address followed months of U.S. maritime strikes targeting alleged drug trafficking vessels. President Trump announced the U.S. would expand its anti-drug trafficking efforts to land operations, claiming maritime interdiction had significantly reduced drug flow by sea. Trump stated these traffickers are responsible for countless deaths in the U.S. and warned them to cease their activities.

Last week, President Trump spoke by phone with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to discuss a potential meeting, despite ongoing U.S. military pressure on Venezuela. The conversation, which included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, occurred shortly before the U.S. State Department designated Maduro as the leader of a foreign terrorist organization. While a meeting between the two leaders was discussed, no plans have been made. The U.S. maintains a significant military presence in the Caribbean aimed at Venezuela, with the stated goal of deterring drug smuggling and removing Maduro from power. The White House and Venezuelan government have not commented on the call, though sources close to the Venezuelan government confirmed it took place.

Last week, President Trump spoke by phone with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to discuss a potential meeting, despite ongoing U.S. military pressure on Venezuela. The conversation, which included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, occurred days before Maduro was designated as the leader of a foreign terrorist organization by the State Department. While a meeting was discussed, no plans are currently in place. The U.S. maintains a significant military presence in the Caribbean aimed at Venezuela, with the stated goal of deterring drug smuggling and removing Maduro from power. The call highlights a dual approach by the Trump administration, involving both diplomatic discussions and threats of force.

Last week, President Trump spoke by phone with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to discuss a potential meeting, despite ongoing U.S. military pressure on Venezuela. The conversation, which included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, occurred days before Maduro was designated as the leader of a foreign terrorist organization by the State Department. While a meeting was discussed, no plans are currently in place. The U.S. maintains a significant military presence in the Caribbean aimed at Venezuela, with the stated goal of deterring drug smuggling and removing Maduro from power. The call highlights a dual approach by the Trump administration, involving both diplomatic discussions and threats of force.