In a significant escalation of tensions, US military forces have seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela. President Trump announced the operation, describing it as the largest tanker ever seized.
The tanker, identified as being involved in transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela, was captured as part of Washington's pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro's government. Attorney General Pam Bondi explained that the vessel had been sanctioned for its ties to an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations.
Caracas swiftly condemned the seizure, dubbing it an act of international piracy while Maduro had previously asserted that Venezuela would not allow itself to become an oil colony.
The US has ramped up its military presence in the Caribbean Sea recently, leading to increased speculation regarding potential military actions against Venezuela. The operation to seize the tanker involved multiple defense departments and illustrated the growing tensions in the region.
Trump's remarks on the operation further underscored the U.S. stance, suggesting they might retain the oil seized, marking a significant moment in US-Venezuelan relations.
