Amanze Chinonye
Following Venezuela’s condemnation of President Donald Trump’s earlier remarks on the country’s oil, land, and mineral wealth, the U.S. President has intensified the standoff, announcing a “total and complete blockade” against the South American nation, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a statement posted on Truth social today, President Trump claimed that Venezuela is “completely surrounded by the largest Armada ever assembled in the history of South America” and warned that the naval presence “will only get bigger.”
He framed the action as a response to what he described as the unlawful appropriation of U.S. assets by Venezuela, stating: “Until such time as they return to the United States of America all of the Oil, Land, and other Assets that they previously stole from us.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe President accused the Nicolás Maduro-led government of using oil revenues to finance criminal activities, including terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, murder, and kidnapping. He added that, for these reasons and others, the Venezuelan regime has been designated a “Foreign Terrorist Organization.”
READ ALSO : Venezuela Condemns Trump’s Threat, Pledges to Defend Sovereignty
U.S. Seizes Sanctioned Venezuelan Oil Tanker, Escalating Tensions
As part of the measures, Trump ordered a blockade targeting all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela. He also claimed that Venezuelan nationals who entered the United States illegally under the previous Biden administration are being repatriated “at a rapid pace.”
“America will not allow criminals, terrorists, or other countries to rob, threaten, or harm our nation, and likewise, will not allow a hostile regime to take our Oil, Land, or any other Assets, all of which must be returned to the United States, immediately,” the statement read.
The announcement comes just a day after Venezuela’s government released a strong rebuttal, calling Trump’s initial comments a “reckless and serious threat” and affirming the country’s sovereignty over its natural resources. Caracas vowed to defend its territory, resources, and independence, citing international law and the United Nations Charter.
Prime Business Africa notes that the escalating confrontation could have far-reaching implications for global oil markets, international maritime trade, and diplomatic relations in the region.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
