UPDATE: Venezuela has just confirmed it has met its ambitious goal of producing 1.2 million barrels of crude oil per day this year, despite escalating U.S. pressures and the recent seizure of oil tankers linked to Caracas. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez announced the achievement through Telegram on Saturday, emphasizing the dedication of workers at state oil company PDVSA under the Productive Independence Plan.
As tensions rise, U.S. forces have seized multiple tankers associated with Venezuela, including the Panama-flagged vessel Centuries, captured on December 10, 2023, and another tanker intercepted on December 9. Rodriguez described the production milestone as a “Christmas gift” for Venezuelans, asserting that it is a testament to the resilience of oil workers who confront U.S. “harassment” and “imperialist illegality.”
Why This Matters NOW: The U.S. has ramped up its efforts against Venezuela’s oil exports, declaring a “total and complete blockade” of sanctioned tankers entering or leaving the country. President Nicolas Maduro’s government is labeled a “foreign terrorist organization” by U.S. officials, and the recent tanker seizures are part of a broader strategy to combat corruption and drug trafficking in the region. Venezuela strongly condemns these actions as “international piracy,” arguing that they are merely a facade for U.S. ambitions to control its oil resources.
Rodriguez reiterated her support for Maduro, stating, “Nothing and no one will stop us,” as the country prepares to further increase oil production to meet its 2026 goals. The implications of this production achievement come at a critical time, with the Venezuelan economy heavily reliant on oil exports amidst ongoing sanctions.
Next Steps: As Venezuela continues to ramp up production under challenging circumstances, the international community will be watching closely. The U.S. has vowed to maintain its pressure on Maduro’s government, increasing the likelihood of further confrontations at sea. The situation remains fluid, with significant geopolitical implications as both nations navigate this turbulent landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
