UPDATE: Venezuela has announced it has successfully met its target of producing 1.2 million barrels of crude oil per day, despite escalating tensions with the United States. This claim comes as US forces have seized multiple oil tankers linked to Caracas, including the Panama-flagged vessel Centuries on December 11 and another tanker on December 10.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez declared the production milestone as a significant achievement for the state oil company PDVSA. She hailed it as the “best Christmas gift” for the Venezuelan people, emphasizing the dedication of oil workers who overcame “harassment, hostility, and imperialist illegality.” Rodriguez vowed that “nothing and no one will stop us,” reaffirming her support for President Nicolas Maduro.
The announcement comes amid a backdrop of US military actions targeting Venezuelan oil assets. President Donald Trump previously declared a “total and complete blockade” against sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, labeling Maduro’s government a “foreign terrorist organization.” In response, Rodriguez condemned these US actions as “international piracy.”
The US government has stated that these measures are aimed at combating corruption and drug trafficking in the region. However, Caracas argues that Washington is using anti-narcotics efforts as a pretext to undermine Maduro’s government and take control of Venezuela’s oil resources.
As tensions rise, observers are closely monitoring the implications for both countries. The Venezuelan government is preparing to ramp up production further to meet objectives set for 2026, continuing their strategy under the Productive Independence Plan.
The situation remains fluid, and developments are expected as both nations navigate the escalating conflict. The international community is watching closely, as the outcome could have significant repercussions for global oil markets and geopolitical relations in the region.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates as this story unfolds.
