International Maritime & Trade Finance Policy Council

Breaking International Shipping News – December 19, 2025 President Donald Trump has ordered a "total and complete blockade" of all U.S.-sanctioned oil tankers in/out of Venezuela, designating the Maduro regime a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Key Developments: Builds on recent seizure of tanker Skipper (2M barrels Merey crude) and new sanctions on vessels/family members. Targets ~30+ shadow fleet tankers in Caribbean; exports sharply down, loaded ships stalled. Venezuela v