First Thing: Venezuela decries ‘act of piracy’ after US forces seize oil tanker off country’s coast

The GuardianThursday, December 11, 2025 at 1:21:58 PM
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First Thing: Venezuela decries ‘act of piracy’ after US forces seize oil tanker off country’s coast
  • U.S. forces have seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, a move described by the Venezuelan government as an 'act of piracy.' This action marks a significant escalation in the Trump administration's pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro's regime, which has faced increasing sanctions and military operations from the U.S. government.
  • The seizure of the oil tanker is a critical development in U.S.-Venezuela relations, highlighting the ongoing tensions and the U.S. strategy to undermine Maduro's government. This operation is seen as part of a broader effort to exert economic and political pressure on Venezuela amid its ongoing crisis.
  • This incident reflects a pattern of escalating military involvement by the U.S. in Latin America, raising concerns about international law and sovereignty. The Venezuelan government's strong condemnation of the seizure underscores the deepening rift between the two nations, while also drawing attention to the humanitarian and political crises facing Venezuela, which have been exacerbated by external pressures.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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