US President Donald Trump intensified calls for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to relinquish power amid a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. Trump stated it would be “smart” for Maduro to step down, warning that resistance would end his ability to “play tough.” He reiterated US plans to retain or sell seized Venezuelan oil.
Tanker activity at Venezuelan ports has slowed since Trump’s blockade announcement last week. Most ships now move oil domestically, leaving millions of barrels stranded offshore. Customers seek discounts for risky voyages beyond Venezuelan waters.
China condemns US seizures
China’s foreign ministry denounced the interception of oil tankers as a violation of international law. Spokesperson Lin Jian affirmed Venezuela’s right to relations with other nations and opposed unilateral sanctions. China, the largest buyer of Venezuelan crude accounting for 4% of its imports, highlighted the Saturday seizure of a China-bound tanker.
Panama’s foreign minister noted the supertanker Centuries, flying its flag, violated maritime rules by changing name and disabling its transponder while carrying Venezuelan oil.
Russia backs Maduro against escalation
Russia’s foreign ministry expressed deep concern over US actions in the Caribbean, including strikes on alleged drug boats and tanker interceptions. Foreign Ministers Sergei Lavrov and Yván Gil warned of risks to regional stability and shipping.
Russia reaffirmed full support for Venezuela’s leadership and people.
Shadow Fleet and counterclaims
The US targeted a third tanker on Sunday, with the empty supertanker Bella 1 drifting northeast of Bermuda after evading interception. Trump accuses Maduro of funding “drug terrorism, human trafficking, murder, and kidnapping” via oil revenues. US strikes since September have killed over 100, including fishermen per families and governments.
Venezuela labels US moves “international piracy” and fears regime change. Maduro urged Trump to address domestic issues instead.
Source: The Guardian
Also read: US pursues third Venezuela oil tanker
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