Venezuela accuses the US of wanting to 'take over its oil resources' as Maduro seeks OPEC+ help

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday requested assistance from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+) in combating what he called the US "direct aggression," which jeopardises Caracas' oil output and the stability of global markets.

Maduro's call for help came in a letter to OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais and member nations, which Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil published on Telegram.

According to Caracas, the increase in US military operations in the Caribbean constitutes a "violation of international law" and threatens global energy stability.

The government of Nicolás Maduro maintains that the US actions seek to "destabilise" the country and affect its export capacity, the letter said, calling on OPEC+ members to show solidarity in the face of what it considers an escalation that, if prolonged, could "seriously endanger the stability of Venezuelan oil production and the world market."

Maduro vowed Venezuela will "remain firm" in protecting its natural energy resources.

Flight suspension leaves thousands of passengers in limbo

The Venezuelan letter came during the second OPEC+ ministerial conference amid US bombings against ships in the Caribbean and a massive military deployment a few kilometres from his shores.

The letter, which called for political and diplomatic support from the producers' group, followed the US's order to close the airspace over Venezuela and the surrounding areas, a move that forced international airlines to suspend flights, cancel commercial routes, and left thousands of passengers in limbo.

Caracas responded by activating an emergency plan to facilitate the return of citizens stranded abroad and accused Washington of creating a de facto blockade.

Several Latin American governments, including Colombia's, led by Gustavo Petro, have expressed concern about the escalation and recommended resorting to international mediation to prevent further deterioration of the situation.

Analysts warn that if the tension continues, Venezuela could face an aggravated humanitarian crisis and the world oil market a new wave of volatility.