U.S. Seizes Oil Tanker Off Venezuela Amid Tensions

The U.S. has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. President Donald Trump announced the operation, describing the tanker as large and stating that it was seized for a very good reason.

According to the New York Times, the tanker was carrying Venezuelan oil, and U.S. officials indicated that the operation was conducted without resistance from the crew. The seizure is part of the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, as reported by The Guardian.

Venezuelan officials have condemned the action, labeling it a 'barefaced robbery' and an act of international piracy. In response, Maduro urged citizens to prepare for confrontation, suggesting a readiness to resist U.S. actions.

Pam Bondi, the U.S. Attorney General, released footage of the operation, which was conducted by U.S. Coast Guard, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Department of Defense. This incident underscores the deteriorating relations between the U.S. and Venezuela, reflecting broader geopolitical struggles in the region.