Video: ReutersThe US is preparing ​to intercept more ships transporting Venezuelan oil following the seizure of a tanker this week, as it increases pressure on ‍Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro, six sources familiar with the matter said on Thursday. Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro waves to a crowd during a rally in Caracas on Wednesday. A reduction or halt in Venezuelan oil exports, the main generator of revenue for the Venezuelan government, would strain the Maduro government’s finances. Meanwhile, Russia and its close ally Belarus contacted Mr Maduro on Thursday, raising the possibility he could seek refuge abroad. Mr Maduro told Mr Trump in a telephone call on November 21st that he was ready to leave Venezuela, provided that he and his family had full legal amnesty, sources have told Reuters.

Source: The Irish Times December 11, 2025 21:18 UTC