Venezuela has issued a defiant response to the United States following a stark warning from Washington, setting the stage for a fresh confrontation over the South American nation's vast natural resources. The latest escalation comes as US military operations in the Caribbean continue, with former President Donald Trump demanding the handover of Venezuelan assets.
Caracas Mayor Accuses US of Coveting Oil and Riches
Speaking during events marking the anniversary of Simón Bolívar, Caracas Mayor Carmen Melendez launched a sharp critique against the United States. She alleged that Washington's primary objective is to seize Venezuela's oil and other riches. According to Melendez, accusations of drug trafficking levelled against the Venezuelan government are merely a smokescreen designed to justify this resource grab.
The mayor's comments reflect the official stance from Caracas, which has long maintained that US sanctions and pressure campaigns are driven by economic interests rather than genuine political or human rights concerns. The remarks were made on December 18, 2025, as reported by TOI.
Trump's Ultimatum and Military Posturing
On the other side of the dispute, former US President Donald Trump has taken a hardline stance. He has declared that American military operations in the Caribbean region will persist until what he terms as Venezuelan assets are returned. This statement signals a potential continuation or intensification of naval and aerial patrols near Venezuelan waters.
In response to Trump's demands, Venezuelan residents and officials have firmly rejected any notion of handing over land or oil reserves. They have emphasised that Venezuela is a sovereign nation seeking peace, but is prepared to defend its resources from what it perceives as foreign aggression and economic coercion.
Maduro Takes the Fight to the United Nations
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has escalated the diplomatic front of this conflict. He has formally warned the United Nations about the increasing threats from the United States. In his communication, Maduro vowed to defend Venezuela's sovereignty and its natural resources against all forms of foreign pressure.
This move indicates Caracas's strategy to internationalise the dispute and seek support from other nations, potentially framing it as a case of a larger power bullying a smaller one for its resources. The situation remains tense, with both sides showing no signs of backing down.
The core of the crisis revolves around three key points:
- Venezuela's accusation that the US wants its oil under false pretences.
- Trump's conditional continuation of military operations until demands are met.
- Maduro's appeal to the UN and vow of national defence.
As military assets like the USS Gerald R. Ford are reportedly on the move, the world watches to see if this war of words will develop into a more direct confrontation. The stakes are incredibly high, centred on control of one of the world's largest proven oil reserves.
