Maduro Orders Navy To Escort Oil Tankers As US Enforces Blockade; China Calls It "Bullying"

President Nicolás Maduro has ordered the Venezuelan navy to escort oil tankers leaving national waters, a directive that could put Venezuelan vessels into direct proximity with — and risk of confrontation from — US forces enforcing a maritime blockade.

International Reaction: US President Donald Trump's restrictions on Venezuelan oil shipments have drawn sharp international attention. China, which buys the vast majority of Venezuela's crude, publicly accused Washington of "bullying" Caracas, escalating diplomatic tensions surrounding the measures.

Diplomatic Steps: Caracas has requested an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council to address what it describes as "ongoing US aggression." Venezuelan officials say the actions risk deepening the country's economic emergency; oil accounts for roughly 80% of Venezuela's export revenues.

Domestic Political Angle: Separately, media reports indicate allies of President Trump are working to arrange a White House meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado — a development that could further complicate international and domestic political dynamics.

Risks And Outlook: Shipping escorts increase the possibility of miscalculation at sea, and the UN request signals Caracas is seeking an international forum to challenge the blockade. Observers will be watching for diplomatic moves from Beijing, Washington and regional governments that could either de-escalate or intensify the standoff.