Post by : Meena Ariff

The U.S. has ramped up its pressure on Venezuela by seizing the tanker Skipper and introducing sanctions on six vessels reportedly involved in transporting Venezuelan oil. Moreover, family members of President Nicolás Maduro and associated businesses have come under scrutiny as Washington intensifies its efforts against what it terms an “illegitimate regime.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asserted that the Skipper was engaged in “illicit oil shipping,” announcing the vessel's transfer to a U.S. port once legal processes are completed. This seizure sparked strong backlash from Caracas, with Maduro labeling the act as “international piracy” and accusing the U.S. of abducting the crew and seizing the ship.

This development coincides with increased U.S. naval deployments in the Caribbean, where numerous operations reportedly target vessels suspected of moving narcotics from Venezuela. Leavitt reiterated the U.S. commitment to halt illegal drug trafficking while enforcing sanctions, warning against the financing of criminal enterprises through black-market oil.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that sanctions also affect three nephews of Maduro's wife and various companies linked to the regime, calling it a necessary measure to hold Maduro and his close circle accountable for “ongoing crimes and dictatorial rule.”

Dramatic footage from the White House showcases troops boarding the Skipper via helicopters, weapons drawn, underscoring the scale of the operation. Venezuelan officials, including Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, have condemned the move as theft and aggressive interference, accusing the U.S. of a long history of global meddling.

Maduro declared that Venezuela would resist becoming an “oil colony,” while Russian President Vladimir Putin allegedly pledged Moscow’s support amid the escalating external pressures. Analysts believe these recent actions represent the most significant U.S. escalation against Caracas in recent times, suggesting potential for further confrontations over Venezuelan resources and regional sway.

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