Trump Orders "Total Blockade" on Venezuelan Oil Tankers, Citing Terrorism & Asset Theft

• President Trump ordered a "total and complete blockade" of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.
• The move aims to pressure Nicolas Maduro's government, designated a "FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATION," over asset theft, terrorism, and drug smuggling.
• US crude futures climbed over 1% after the announcement; legal experts like Elena Chachko and Rep. Joaquin Castro questioned its legality as an "act of war."
• The US has significantly increased its military presence in the region, and previous sanctions already led to a sharp decline in Venezuelan crude exports.
• Experts warn of potential impacts including higher oil prices, inflation, and increased migration from Venezuela if the blockade is fully implemented.

Why It Matters: Trump escalates pressure on Venezuela with a "total blockade" on oil tankers, raising legal and economic concerns.