Venezuela protests US piracy over oil shipments blockade

Hundreds of motorcyclists gathered in Caracas on Monday to protest the U.S. seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers, denouncing the action as “piracy” against the country’s oil shipments. The demonstration followed the U.S. Navy’s interception of two tankers carrying Venezuelan crude as part of an ongoing naval blockade of the Latin American nation. Riders rode through the streets, condemning President Donald Trump’s attempts to seize Venezuela’s natural resources, particularly oil, and calling the seizures illegal and a threat to Venezuela’s sovereignty.

“We came out to repudiate the U.S. president’s actions, which we see as an attempt to steal our oil and undermine our country’s sovereignty,” a protester told state broadcaster teleSUR. The protest coincided with the Venezuelan National Assembly’s advancement of an anti‑piracy bill aimed at protecting the country’s commercial relations and citizens from what lawmakers described as the “predatory actions” of the U.S. government. The bill is viewed as a direct response to the blockade, which Venezuela has denounced as piracy.

The United States justifies the blockade by claiming that Venezuela “stole” U.S. energy assets, with President Trump warning that Caracas will face significant consequences unless the assets are returned. Venezuela, however, maintains that the U.S. measures are an attempt at regime change and a bid to control the nation’s vast oil reserves.

The blockade has drawn international condemnation. Russia and China have urged restraint and respect for international law, warning that U.S. military action could trigger broader instability in the region. The incident underscores the escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with Caracas accusing Washington of undermining its sovereignty and exploiting its natural resources.

The situation remains volatile. Venezuela’s government vows to defend its sovereignty, while the United States continues its blockade. The international community is watching closely, with many calling for a peaceful resolution. As the standoff persists, the region’s future trajectory remains uncertain.