What's happened
Since late December 2025, the US has intensified its campaign against Venezuela, seizing oil tankers and threatening military action to pressure President Maduro. The move has drawn international condemnation from Russia and China, amid ongoing tensions over Venezuela's oil reserves and US sanctions.
What's behind the headline?
The US strategy reflects a broader effort to assert dominance over Venezuela's oil resources amid geopolitical tensions. The seizure of tankers and threats of military intervention are designed to pressure Maduro into stepping down, but they risk escalating regional conflict. Russia and China’s support complicates US efforts, framing the actions as violations of sovereignty and international law. The US's focus on maritime strikes and economic sanctions signals a shift toward more aggressive tactics, which could lead to increased instability in the region. The international response, including condemnation from Moscow and Beijing, indicates a potential for wider geopolitical confrontation. The next phase will likely involve diplomatic pushback and possible escalation of military posturing, with regional stability hanging in the balance.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that Trump considered military options against Venezuela, including maritime strikes, as part of a broader campaign to pressure Maduro. The Mirror details the US seizing oil tankers and threatening further action, emphasizing the escalation of economic and military pressure. The New Arab highlights international reactions, with Russia and China condemning US moves and supporting Maduro, framing the US actions as violations of sovereignty. Reuters provides insight into the US's strategic aims, including controlling Venezuela's oil and combating drug trafficking, while also noting the potential for regional destabilization. These contrasting perspectives underscore the complexity of US-Venezuela relations amid global geopolitical tensions.
How we got here
The US has long sought to weaken Nicolás Maduro's government, citing concerns over sovereignty and alleged drug trafficking. Recent actions include seizing oil tankers and increasing military presence in the region, with the aim of pressuring Maduro to relinquish power and regain control over Venezuela's vast oil reserves. Russia and China have expressed support for Maduro, condemning US sanctions and vessel seizures as violations of international law.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Is the US Seizing Venezuelan Oil Tankers Now?
Recent actions by the US Coast Guard have led to the seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers, escalating tensions in the region. Many are asking why the US is taking these steps now, what it means for Venezuela, and how it impacts global oil markets. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this complex geopolitical situation and what might happen next.
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Why Is the US Increasing Oil Seizures from Venezuela?
The US has stepped up its efforts to seize Venezuelan oil amid ongoing tensions with Maduro's government. This move raises questions about US motives, regional stability, and international reactions. Below, we explore the reasons behind these actions and what they could mean for the future of Venezuela and global geopolitics.
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Why is Iran declaring total war against the US and Israel?
Recent developments suggest Iran is escalating its conflict with the US and Israel, claiming a stance of total war amid ongoing military and political tensions. This raises important questions about the reasons behind Iran's aggressive posture, what it means for regional stability, and how the US and Israel are planning to respond. Below, we explore the key issues driving this escalation and what it could mean for global security.
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Why Is the US Increasing Pressure on Venezuela Now?
In late December 2025, the US has stepped up its efforts against Venezuela, seizing oil tankers and even threatening military action. But what's behind this sudden escalation? Many wonder why the US is focusing so heavily on Venezuela at this moment, and what the broader implications might be. Below, we explore the reasons for this increased pressure, international reactions, and what it could mean for the region and Venezuela's oil reserves.
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What’s Next in Middle East and Global Security?
The geopolitical landscape is rapidly evolving, with escalating tensions in the Middle East and shifting dynamics worldwide. From conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the US to regional clashes in Syria and economic pressures in Venezuela, many are asking what the future holds. Here, we explore the key questions shaping global security and what to watch for in the coming weeks.
More on these topics
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Venezuela, officially the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, is a country on the northern coast of South America, consisting of a continental landmass and many small islands and islets in the Caribbean Sea.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Marco Antonio Rubio is an American attorney and politician currently serving as the senior United States Senator from Florida. A Republican, Rubio previously served as Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.
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Nicolás Maduro Moros is a Venezuelan politician serving as president of Venezuela since 2013. His presidency has been disputed by Juan Guaidó since January 2019, although Maduro is the real president.