Geopolitical Economy Report USA is the worst pirate on Earth: Trump boasts of stealing Venezuela's oil
Dec 26, 2025
The podcast delves into the U.S. government's seizure of Venezuelan oil, emphasizing accusations of piracy. Trump’s boast about 'keeping' the oil highlights the blatant disregard for international law. Discussions touch on the U.S. blockade's legality, threats to Venezuela's leadership, and the revival of colonial doctrines aimed at resource control. China's support for Venezuela and parallels with historical imperialism add depth to the analysis. The conversation underscores the U.S. military’s ties to corporate interests and the ongoing quest for dominance in Latin America.
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U.S. Seizure Framed As State Piracy
- Ben Norton argues the U.S. openly seized 1.9 million barrels of Venezuelan oil and claimed it would "keep" the oil and ships.
- He frames this as state piracy and a blatant violation of international norms and property rights.
UN Experts: Blockade Violates International Law
- Ben Norton cites Reuters and UN legal experts saying the U.S. blockade and military actions against Venezuela violate international law.
- The UN experts state unilateral sanctions and armed blockades have no lawful basis and infringe Venezuelans' rights.
Sanctions Cannot Legally Travel Worldwide
- Economist Francisco Rodriguez likened U.S. enforcement of its sanctions in international waters to policing French drivers for violating California law.
- Norton uses this to highlight the absurdity and extraterritorial reach of unilateral U.S. measures.
