U.S. officials said the measure will involve intensified maritime enforcement to prevent vessels linked to sanctioned entities from transporting Venezuelan crude, effectively tightening existing sanctions already in place for years. The move follows recent U.S. seizures of oil tankers near Venezuela and reflects a broader strategy aimed at cutting off funding streams the Trump administration says are used to sustain Maduro’s grip on power. Washington has long accused Caracas of corruption, democratic abuses, and illicit oil trading to bypass sanctions.

Venezuela has repeatedly condemned U.S. sanctions as illegal and economically damaging to its population, while analysts warn the expanded enforcement could further strain global energy markets and heighten regional tensions. The order marks one of the most aggressive U.S. actions yet against Venezuela’s oil industry, signaling that the Trump administration is prepared to intensify economic pressure unless political conditions change in Caracas.