On Tuesday, 23 December, the Venezuelan government enacted a new law imposing stringent penalties on individuals who assist or finance activities linked to the United States-led sanctions and maritime piracy. Offenders under this legislation face imprisonment of up to twenty years. The law has been explicitly designed to safeguard the nation’s economy and protect the standard of living of its citizens.
President Nicolás Maduro described the law as a decisive measure against piracy and economic sabotage. During the presentation of the bill in the National Assembly, Maduro’s allied lawmaker Giuseppe Alessandrello stated, “This legislation will preserve our national economy and prevent the deterioration of our citizens’ livelihoods.”
The passage of the law has further intensified political tensions on the international stage. In recent months, the United States has undertaken a series of assertive actions against Venezuela, including deploying substantial military forces in Latin America, seizing oil tankers, carrying out military attacks on vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking, and issuing threats of ground invasions.
International reactions have been swift. Reports from Al Jazeera highlight the disputed legality of US actions, particularly the seizure of oil tankers in international waters, and stress that the military strikes against suspected drug traffickers are widely regarded as breaches of international law.
At the United Nations, Venezuelan representative Samuel Moncada stated during a UN Security Council meeting, “We face a force that operates beyond international law, compelling Venezuelan citizens to abandon their country and attempt to seize control of our nation.”
Meanwhile, China and Russia have sharply criticised the US measures. Prior to the law’s enactment, President Maduro accused the United States of attempting to overthrow his government and unlawfully claim control over Venezuela’s vast oil reserves—reserves that US officials have falsely asserted belong to their country.
The following table summarises recent key developments:
| Date | Event | Impact / Reaction |
|---|---|---|
| 23 December | New sanctions aid law enacted | Up to 20-year imprisonment for sanctions and piracy support |
| December | US seizes Venezuelan oil tanker | International dispute, questions over legality |
| November | Military deployment and naval attacks | Dozens killed, international condemnation |
| December | China and Russia condemn US measures | Diplomatic support for Venezuela |
This new legislation underscores the Maduro government’s firm stance in defending national sovereignty, protecting the domestic economy, and resisting foreign interference. It also signals Venezuela’s determination to counter external pressures, particularly from the United States.