U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that American forces intercepted a "very large" oil tanker near Venezuela's coast, marking the latest escalation in Washington's Caribbean security operations. The seizure occurred amid heightened military activity in the region, with 15,000 U.S. troops and a dozen warships currently deployed – the largest such presence in three decades.
International oil markets reacted immediately, with Brent crude prices rising 0.8% following the announcement. Analysts suggest the move could further strain global energy supplies already impacted by geopolitical uncertainties.
The Pentagon characterized the operation as a "judicial enforcement action" targeting a stateless vessel previously docked in Venezuela. This development follows 22 confirmed U.S. strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels since September, resulting in at least 87 casualties.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the actions as "imperialist aggression" aimed at destabilizing his government. The confrontation occurs as Trump reiterates plans for imminent counter-narcotics strikes on land targets in the Caribbean.
Regional security experts warn the increased militarization risks destabilizing Latin America's delicate political balance, while energy traders monitor potential impacts on Venezuela's oil exports – still a significant component of global crude supplies despite recent production declines.
