Trump Orders Foreign Leader To Step Down
President Donald Trump said Monday that it would be a “smart decision” for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to step aside, as U.S. naval forces continue enforcing a sweeping blockade targeting Venezuela’s oil exports.
Speaking to reporters from his Florida residence, Trump was asked whether the growing U.S. pressure campaign was intended to force Maduro out after more than a decade in power. Trump responded that the decision ultimately rests with Maduro—but warned the consequences of defiance could be severe.
“That’s up to him,” Trump said. “But if he decides to play tough, it would be the last time he ever gets to play tough.”
Russia Moves Quickly to Back Caracas
As Washington ramps up enforcement actions in the Caribbean, Russia moved swiftly to reaffirm its support for the Maduro government. The statement came just ahead of a scheduled United Nations Security Council meeting focused on rising tensions in the region.
According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a phone call with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil, during which both officials condemned U.S. naval actions and pledged closer coordination at the United Nations.
Moscow warned that America’s enforcement of maritime sanctions—including the interception of oil tankers—could disrupt international shipping and destabilize the broader Caribbean region.
U.S. Navy Expands Maritime Enforcement
Under Trump’s direction, U.S. forces have carried out maritime operations since September aimed at vessels Washington says are linked to sanctions violations and narcotics trafficking. Two oil tankers have already been seized, and a third was reportedly being pursued over the weekend.
The administration argues that Venezuela’s oil revenues are being used to finance criminal networks, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, and violent crime. Trump has repeatedly accused the Maduro government of transforming Venezuela into a narco-state.
Last week, the president formally announced a blockade on “sanctioned oil vessels” entering or leaving Venezuelan ports, saying the move is necessary to protect U.S. interests and restore regional stability.
Caracas Pushes Back as Energy Concerns Rise
The Maduro government has sharply criticized the U.S. actions, accusing Washington of seeking regime change and labeling the maritime seizures as unlawful. In a letter read on state television, Maduro warned UN member states that the blockade could affect global oil and energy supplies.
Venezuelan officials have also accused the United States of violating international law, claims Washington has strongly rejected.
Rubio Dismisses Russian Posturing
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed Moscow’s statements, saying the United States is not concerned about escalation with Russia over Venezuela.
“They have their hands full elsewhere,” Rubio said, pointing to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
Relations between Washington and Moscow have continued to deteriorate in recent weeks, with Trump voicing frustration over Russia’s lack of progress toward resolving the conflict in Eastern Europe while simultaneously backing hostile regimes in the Western Hemisphere.
Pressure Campaign Shows No Signs of Slowing
Despite objections from Caracas and its international allies, the Trump administration has made clear it will continue applying economic and maritime pressure. Officials say the strategy is aimed at cutting off funding for criminal activity while defending U.S. national security and energy interests.
For now, the administration’s message remains firm: Venezuela’s leadership can choose cooperation—or face even tougher consequences.
