The Trump administration appears to be escalating pressure on Russia while moving to control Venezuela's oil resources, according to industry analysts. U.S. forces seized two "ghost" tankers suspected of illicitly carrying Venezuelan oil, including one reportedly flying under the Russian flag. Analysts warn that confrontation with Russia or Iran could begin to affect crude markets, and the U.S. was authorized to sell up to 50 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil with proceeds to be shared.
U.S. Poised To Play Hardball With Russia While Tightening Grip On Venezuela's Oil
US may be poised to play hardball with Russia: Oil market analyst
An energy analyst says the Trump administration appears prepared to take a firmer line with Russia as it asserts control over Venezuela's oil-dependent economy.
On Wednesday U.S. forces seized two more so-called "ghost" tankers suspected of illicitly transporting Venezuelan oil. One vessel reportedly sought shelter under the Russian flag, prompting warnings that Washington may escalate pressure on Moscow.
Political and Market Signals
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told reporters that President Trump has agreed to back a measure that would impose tougher sanctions on Russia. "President Trump is on the march, including against Russia," Bob McNally, founder and president of Rapidan Energy Group, told "Elizabeth Vargas Reports."
McNally, a former adviser to President George W. Bush, cautioned that while the recent U.S. operation in Venezuela — which reportedly included special forces capturing President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas — had not immediately rattled energy markets, that could change if tensions with Russia or Iran escalate.
"Russia and Iran are looming over the horizon. Unlike [with] Venezuela, things could start to affect crude oil," McNally said.
Venezuelan Oil And Regional Diplomacy
The Trump administration announced this week that the acting Venezuelan government would permit the U.S. to sell up to 50 billion barrels of oil, with proceeds to be shared between the two countries. Officials say those sales aim to stabilize supply and exert leverage over the Maduro regime's resources.
President Trump also said he remains open to U.S. involvement in other regional matters, including Colombia. Trump spoke Wednesday with Colombian President Gustavo Petro and described the conversation as cordial; Bogota confirmed the call was amicable.
"We hope it can deescalate tensions, because in this context of instability a strike would do more harm than good," said Elizabeth Dickinson, senior analyst for Colombia at the International Crisis Group.
The unfolding situation ties geopolitical maneuvering to energy markets: analysts warn that direct confrontation with Russia or Iran could begin to affect crude supplies and prices, even if current market reactions remain muted.
For the latest updates: Watch NewsNation segments and follow official statements from the U.S. Department of Defense and the State Department.
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