Trump Orders "Total Blockade" on Venezuela Oil Tankers Amid Rising Caribbean Tensions

WASHINGTON — Tensions in the Western Hemisphere reached a boiling point this Wednesday as President Donald Trump announced a "complete blockade" of sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela. The directive marks a significant escalation in US foreign policy, with the administration signaling a renewed effort to pressure the Maduro regime.

According to White House sources, the blockade is intended to cut off Venezuela’s dwindling economic lifelines. "This is about enforcing the law and stopping the flow of illicit resources that prop up a dictatorship," a senior administration official stated. The order authorizes the US Navy to intercept and turn back vessels suspected of violating US sanctions.

The move comes at a controversial moment for the Pentagon. Earlier today, Defense officials confirmed they would not release the full video footage of a recent US strike in the Caribbean. The strike, which targeted suspected "narco-terrorist" vessels, has drawn scrutiny after reports emerged that it may have resulted in the deaths of survivors from an initial attack.

Pete Hegseth, speaking for the Pentagon, dismissed calls for the footage release, citing operational security. Meanwhile, President Trump’s Chief of Staff suggested in a recent interview that the ultimate goal of these intensified operations—including the new blockade—is to facilitate a leadership change in Caracas.

As the US Navy increases its presence in the region, international observers are warning that the blockade could disrupt global oil markets and potentially spark a direct naval confrontation in the Caribbean.