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| President Donald Trump has had long-simmering tension with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro [File: Alex Brandon/AP Photo] |
The United States seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela in a military operation early Wednesday, dramatically escalating tensions with the government of Nicolás Maduro, which condemned the action as "blatant theft" and "an act of international piracy".
The operation marks a significant intensification of the Trump administration's pressure campaign against Venezuela, moving beyond strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats to directly intercept a vessel carrying a vital national resource.
Core Details of the Incident
- Announcement: President Donald Trump announced the seizure during a White House event, calling it "the largest one ever seized actually".
- Vessel: The tanker is identified as "The Skipper", sanctioned by the U.S. since 2022 for alleged involvement in an illicit oil network supporting Iran and foreign terrorist organizations.
- U.S. Justification: Officials claim the tanker was transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran.
- Venezuelan Response: Venezuela denounced the action as piracy and theft.
- Immediate Impact: News of the seizure triggered a rise in global oil prices.
The Seizure Operation
The pre-dawn mission involved U.S. special operations forces, the Coast Guard, and the Navy.
- Execution: The raid was launched from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. Armed personnel fast-roped onto the tanker from helicopters. A 45-second video of this mission was later released by Attorney General Pam Bondi.
- Personnel: The boarding team included U.S. Marines, special operations forces, and elite Coast Guard units.
- Legal Authority: Officials stated the Coast Guard led the mission due to its legal authority over maritime seizures.
Venezuela’s Accusations and U.S. Justifications
Venezuela's View
- Calls the seizure an “act of international piracy”.
- Accuses the U.S. of trying to "plunder" its natural resources.
- Argues that U.S. pressure is about oil control, not democracy.
- Promises to raise the matter before global institutions.
U.S. Position
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that "The Skipper" was used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Iranian oil as part of a network aiding the IRGC and Hezbollah. The tanker (formerly named Adisa) was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury in 2022.
Broader Context of Escalating Tensions
Recent U.S. Military Actions
- Over 20 strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats since September, resulting in more than 80 deaths.
- The U.S. has deployed one of its largest naval fleets in decades to the region.
- Trump has warned that the U.S. may begin strikes “on land, too”.
Political & Economic Pressure
Targeting the tanker hits Venezuela’s oil-dependent economy at its core. Analysts warn this could be a step toward a full blockade.
Implications and Reactions
International & Market Reaction
Oil prices rose immediately. Legal experts question the U.S. interpretation of maritime laws governing high-seas seizures.
Domestic U.S. Politics
- Republicans: Strong support from leaders like Lindsey Graham, calling Venezuela a “narcoterrorist state”.
- Democrats: Some expressed concern about the administration’s strategy. Senator Mark Warner questioned operational priorities.
- Public Opinion: A CBS poll shows 53% support force against drug boats but 70% oppose military action inside Venezuela.
What Happens Next?
- Venezuela plans to protest the action internationally.
- U.S. officials hint at more similar missions.
- Experts warn that a blockade of Venezuelan oil could be seen as an “act of war”.
The seizure of "The Skipper" represents a major escalation in the U.S.–Venezuela confrontation, shifting from sanctions to direct military operations targeting Venezuela’s economic lifeline.
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