The US has seized a sanctioned vessel in international waters off the coast of Venezuela, US officials have confirmed to CBS News. This marks the second vessel seizure in as many weeks.
President Donald Trump's recent declaration of a 'blockade' against sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers sets the backdrop for this latest operation. As tensions increase, Venezuela has previously accused the US of attempting to steal its oil resources.
The latest ship seizure was executed by the US Coast Guard, reportedly involving a specialized tactical team. The White House has not elaborated further but emphasized the vessel's alleged connection to illicit oil shipping.
The US's military presence in the Caribbean has been increasing, with reported deadly strikes on boats accused of drug smuggling, resulting in numerous casualties. However, the lack of public evidence linking the intercepted vessels to drug trafficking has raised concerns in Congress regarding the appropriateness of military responses.
The US administration characterizes Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro as a leader of a 'designated terrorist organization' known as Cartel de los Soles, allegations he vehemently denies.
Venezuela, home to the world's largest proven oil reserves, heavily relies on oil exports for government funding. Trump’s blockade announcement follows last week's seizure of another oil tanker linked to what officials call the 'ghost fleet' operating near Venezuela.
In response, Maduro condemned the US actions, claiming that the crew had been 'kidnapped' and denouncing the seizure as theft.
This breaking news article is evolving, and more details will come to light as the situation develops.
