Trump Escalates Pressure on Maduro with Naval Blockade and Tanker Seizures

President Donald Trump has intensified his campaign against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, signaling that the strongman should step aside amid opposition from allies China and Russia.

The Trump administration recently conducted strikes on suspected drug boats off Latin America’s coast and announced a full blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers. Naval presence in the region has also increased significantly. While officials frame these as anti-drug measures, they align with broader efforts to oust Maduro—building on prior sanctions and support for opposition figure Juan Guaidó from Trump’s first term.

Trump stated Monday that the pressure would “probably” force Maduro out. “That’s up to him, what he wants to do,” he said. “I think it would be smart for him to do that. But, again, we’re going to find out.” The White House does not recognize Maduro’s legitimacy, viewing him as a drug cartel leader, but avoids explicit talk of regime change.

China and Russia have condemned the actions as violations of international law. The U.S. seized multiple Venezuelan oil tankers starting December 10, with Trump confirming pursuit of another “sanctioned dark fleet vessel” evading sanctions. Russia’s Foreign Ministry reported a call between Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Venezuelan counterpart Yván Gil, reaffirming “all-out support” for Venezuela and expressing “grave concern” over U.S. escalation in the Caribbean, which they say threatens regional stability and international shipping