US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (December 10th) that the United States had seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, marking a sharp escalation in the administration’s campaign against President Nicolás Maduro.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump described the operation as unprecedented in scope.
“We just seized a tanker off the coast of Venezuela, a large tanker, very large – actually the largest ever seized,” Trump said.
He added that there were “other things going on” without elaborating, saying he would address the matter further at a later date.
The move comes as US forces have expanded operations in the region, targeting vessels Washington says are linked to narco-terrorism and drug-trafficking networks linked to the Maduro government.
Increased military activity near Venezuela
The seizure followed an unusual US military show of force: a pair of US fighter jets flew over the Gulf of Venezuela on Tuesday, in what officials said was likely the closest approach to Venezuelan airspace since the Trump administration began increasing pressure.
The United States has deployed its largest military presence in Latin America in decades, launching several deadly attacks on ships suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
Trump hints at ground attacks
Trump has repeatedly said ground operations could be next. He did not specify targets or timing.
Accusations against Maduro
The escalation comes as Maduro faces US accusations of narco-terrorism, with Washington accusing members of his government of supporting drug trafficking networks and criminal groups.
The seizure of the oil tanker adds a new layer to the administration’s pressure campaign.
