U.S.–Venezuela Standoff Reaches UN Stage as Brazil Calls Blockade Illegal

Overview

• President Trump ordered a 'total blockade' on sanctioned tankers to and from Venezuela, with U.S. authorities reporting two interceptions and an active pursuit of a third vessel tied to a 'ghost fleet'.
• At a Security Council session requested by Caracas, Brazil said the U.S. naval posture and blockade order violate the UN Charter and should cease immediately, offering to facilitate dialogue.
• Venezuela's envoy accused Washington of extortion and a bid to impose a colony, while the U.S. ambassador vowed to tighten sanctions to cut off oil revenues and alleged criminal networks.
• Russia labeled the move illegal and warned of 'cowboy' tactics, and China opposed what it called unilateral intimidation.
• Caracas approved prison terms of up to 20 years for aiding tanker seizures as Washington reportedly lifted its reward for information leading to Nicolás Maduro’s arrest to $50 million.