US forces have successfully intercepted and seized a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, as confirmed by US President Donald Trump during a meeting with business leaders at the White House.
Two officials disclosed to Reuters that the operation was executed by the US Coast Guard, but they refrained from identifying the tanker or specifying the exact location of the operation. This incident represents a significant escalation in the actions taken by the Trump administration, which has intensified its pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in recent weeks.
The US government accuses Maduro of overseeing a narcotrafficking operation, a claim he has consistently denied. Over the past year, the Pentagon has conducted more than 20 operations targeting alleged drug-trafficking vessels in the waters near Venezuela and Colombia, resulting in over 80 deaths among suspected traffickers.
Additionally, President Trump has hinted at the possibility of US military intervention on Venezuelan soil. While he avoided providing specific details about potential troop deployment, he indicated that Maduro’s “days are numbered.”
The government of Venezuela perceives these US actions as an attempt to seize control of its vast oil reserves, which are among the largest in the world. As the situation continues to develop, more information will be released.
The unfolding events reflect the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Venezuela, where the ongoing tension between the US and the Maduro administration raises concerns about regional stability. The focus on drug trafficking and oil reserves underscores the intricate challenges facing both nations as the situation evolves.