According to KhabarOnline, an Iranian News Agency, Trump stated at a recent White House press conference that he does not require congressional approval to attack Venezuela. Responding to a journalist’s question, he reiterated that the United States is pursuing drug cartels inside Venezuelan territory and argued that such action does not require authorization from domestic legal institutions.
Although this is not the first time a U.S. president has taken such a position, the comments come at a time when signs of escalating tension between Washington and Caracas are becoming more visible toward the end of 2025. These developments have turned the situation into one of the more sensitive issues in the Caribbean region.
In recent weeks, the United States has imposed restrictions on Venezuelan tankers and vessels, and U.S. Southern Command has reported attacks on two boats in international waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in five deaths.
The crisis between the United States and Venezuela has not remained confined to South America, with its consequences extending to other regions, including West Asia.
While Washington cites the fight against drug trafficking as the main justification for its actions, Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves, giving it strategic importance in global energy calculations.
Long-standing political and ideological differences between the two countries have also shaped their relations. During Trump’s second term, economic and oil sanctions have been accompanied by increased political and military pressure on Caracas.
In a recent move, the U.S. government announced on December 16, 2025, that sanctioned oil tankers attempting to enter or leave Venezuelan ports would be subject to maritime restrictions. Venezuelan authorities have described these measures as violations of international law, freedom of navigation, and national sovereignty.
At the same time, the United States has expanded its military presence in the region by deploying naval assets and additional forces.
International Reactions
U.S. actions have drawn responses from several countries and international bodies. Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement warning against the continued escalation of tensions around Venezuela and urged restraint, citing the risk of unpredictable consequences.
China emphasized its partnership with Venezuela, expressed opposition to unilateral actions, and underscored the right of countries to safeguard their sovereignty and pursue independent international cooperation.
The United Nations, through a spokesperson for the Secretary-General, has also called for an immediate reduction in tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Iran’s Foreign Ministry, in a separate statement, described U.S. interference with Venezuelan commercial shipping as inconsistent with international law and stressed the importance of respecting national sovereignty.
Iran–Venezuela Relations Under Sanctions
Iran and Venezuela have maintained cooperation for nearly three decades in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and efforts to mitigate the impact of sanctions. These projects have included housing, industrial development, refinery operations, and agricultural initiatives. Despite difficulties caused by sanctions, both countries continue to emphasize the importance of sustaining bilateral cooperation through long-term agreements and trade frameworks.
In recent months, some officials and opposition groups linked to Venezuela have raised claims about Iran’s role in current developments. Tehran has rejected these claims, reiterating that U.S. actions against Caracas violate international law.
Observers note that part of Washington’s pressure on Venezuela reflects broader concerns about the growing presence of countries such as China, Russia, and Iran in Latin America. Venezuela’s energy resources and their potential impact on global oil markets are also viewed as key factors shaping U.S. policy.
Overall, regardless of how the Caribbean crisis unfolds, its consequences are expected to extend beyond the region, influencing geopolitical rivalries and global energy flows. From a legal perspective, these developments also serve as a test for international actors that emphasize adherence to the principles of international law.