Key PointsVenezuela accuses US of extortion after Washington seized two of its oil tankers in the Caribbean, triggering an emergency debate at the United Nations and fresh warnings of escalating regional conflict.Caracas says the action amounts to piracy and violates international law, while the US argues it is enforcing sanctions against President Nicolás Maduro’s government.What Happened At an emergency session of the UN Security Council in New York, Venezuela condemned the US seizure of two oil tankers off its coast earlier this month.Venezuela’s UN ambassador Samuel Moncada called the move “the greatest extortion” in the country’s history, accusing Washington of looting national resources and acting outside international law. Venezuela accuses US of extortion after Washington seized two of its oil tankers in the Caribbean, triggering an emergency debate at the United Nations and fresh warnings of escalating regional conflict. Caracas says the action amounts to piracy and violates international law, while the US argues it is enforcing sanctions against President Nicolás Maduro’s government. What Happened At an emergency session of the UN Security Council in New York, Venezuela condemned the US seizure of two oil tankers off its coast earlier this month. Venezuela’s UN ambassador Samuel Moncada called the move “the greatest extortion” in the country’s history, accusing Washington of looting national resources and acting outside international law. The US has confirmed it is also pursuing a third Venezuelan tanker, following President Donald Trump’s order for a naval blockade of sanctioned oil shipments on December 16. Why It Matters The standoff sharpens tensions in the Caribbean and raises concerns over the use of military force to enforce sanctions. The US has deployed 15,000 troops, warships and aircraft carriers to the region — its largest military buildup there since the 1989 invasion of Panama. Washington says the operation targets drug trafficking routes, including fentanyl and cocaine flows. However, legal experts warn that US strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels — which have reportedly killed over 100 people — could breach international laws governing armed conflict. Russia and China backed Venezuela at the UN, accusing the US of aggression and warning that similar actions could target other Latin American nations. What Happens Next Diplomatic pressure is expected to intensify at the UN, with Venezuela seeking broader international condemnation of US actions. China urged Washington to halt further seizures, while Russia warned the tanker operations could become a template for future military interventions. The US has made clear it will retain or sell both the seized oil and vessels, signaling no immediate retreat as regional tensions continue to rise. Key Reactions Venezuela: Calls the seizures piracy and recolonisation United States: Says oil sales fund Maduro’s alleged narco activities Russia: Warns US actions threaten global stability China: Urges de-escalation and restraint Post navigation Zelensky Peace Plan Signals Shift Toward Demilitarised Donbas NORAD Set to Track Santa on Christmas Eve